Here we go again, another dead bear through no fault of its own. It’s not a bear problem, it’s a people problem! Why can’t people realize these are wild animals? You don’t crowd them! These bears aren’t normally vicious but sows are protective of their cubs. They can become aggressive and the bears are always the losers.
There are laws against harassing wildlife and you can be ticketed for violating the law. The signs along the roadway are not being read or are totally ignored. Maybe a big sign in bold letters stating “You will be ticketed for harassing wildlife” would help.
If tour buses are being allowed in the area of the river for bear viewing, then the operators need to be in control of their passengers who immediately swarm over the bank to the river’s edge for a little view. This is not acceptable. If tour guides can’t control their passengers, maybe buses should be banned from the area.
The area close to the weir should be closed to fishermen so the bears that are feeding can have their space unmolested. They need these fish to sustain them through the long winter months.
I’ve enjoyed going to the Chilkoot River to see the sows with their cubs frolicking under their mother’s watchful eyes. What a rare experience to see! If we don’t do something about overcrowding soon, bear viewing will only be a memory.
Dixie Hayes