The Conservation Officer Service is currently investigating the illegal harvest of a black bear that was dumped near a forestry road above Sechelt on the weekend.
The bear was found by hikers who reported the incident through the Report All Poachers and Polluters call centre.
Local conservation officers investigated the report and found the deceased bear missing all four paws and the gall bladder.
Conservation Officer Dean Miller reported the foreign market for bear parts may be reaching the Sunshine Coast and this bear could be one of many.
“Considering the proximity to the Lower Mainland and the densities of local bears it is probable that this will be a growing issue on the Coast,” Miller stated.
Under the BC Wildlife Act, it is an offence to traffic in wildlife and to fail to remove all edible portions of a hunted animal.
The Conservation Officer Service is seeking information on this incident from the general public. All reports can be made anonymously by calling 1-877-952-7277.
