Texada Island, a small island off British Columbia, is facing a dilemma over a four-year-old grizzly bear named Tex, who swam across the Malaspina Strait. His arrival has sparked tensions between residents, conservation officers, and First Nations about how to manage his presence. Previously known for breaking into fishing boats and stalking walkers, Tex poses safety concerns despite officials issuing a no kill order. Experts emphasize such behavior is typical for young male bears, suggesting the importance of wildlife management as the island community navigates this unique situation.
Once a hub of logging and mining, Texada Island is now home to 1,200 residents and the one grizzly bear, who was last spotted just after sunset on 23 June.
The exhausted young bear, named Tex by locals, hauled himself ashore on 25 May, unleashing a fierce row between residents, conservation officers and First Nations over his future.
Despite his somewhat checkered past, provincial officials said in a statement that there is a no kill order on Tex, but safety threats could prompt action.
Nicholas Scapillati, head of the Grizzly Bear Foundation, said such behaviour is to be expected for a young male bear, indicating Tex's actions aren't unusual.
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