Based on coverage from CBC, Global News, CHEK News, and Times Colonist.
Texada Island Residents Fined for Grizzly Bear Killing
Two residents of Texada Island, Kody Bevan and Seneca Antony, have been fined a total of $6,000 for failing to promptly report the killing of a grizzly bear, a violation under the B.C. Wildlife Act. The bear, affectionately named "Tex" by locals, was shot in July 2025, sparking controversy within the community. The B.C. Conservation Officer Service (COS) announced the fines, with $4,000 directed to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
Community Divided Over Grizzly's Fate
Texada Island, located about 100 kilometres northwest of Vancouver, is home to around 1,000 residents who were unaccustomed to large predators. The grizzly had been relocated twice before, after wandering into populated areas on the Sunshine Coast. While some residents felt the bear posed a threat, others, including local First Nations, advocated for its relocation rather than euthanasia. The provincial government was in the process of approving a relocation plan when the bear was shot.
Legal and Financial Repercussions
Bevan and Antony, who pleaded guilty in Powell River provincial court, have since launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover their fines and legal expenses. They claim the bear was threatening their dairy cows, prompting them to act. Their actions have been met with mixed reactions, with some community members supporting their decision and others criticizing the lack of communication about the relocation plan.
Calls for Policy Review and Improvement
The case has highlighted potential gaps in wildlife management policies. Nicholas Scapillati, executive director of the Grizzly Bear Foundation, emphasized the need for updates to the Wildlife Act, which has not been revised since the 1800s. He pointed out that the situation underscores the necessity for quicker governmental response and better collaboration with First Nations in managing wildlife conflicts. Ellie Lamb, a bear behaviour educator, echoed these sentiments, criticizing the province's slow response.
Moving Forward: Lessons Learned
The incident has prompted discussions about improving wildlife management strategies in British Columbia. While the fines serve as a legal consequence, they also reflect broader issues in balancing human-wildlife interactions. The provincial government has yet to comment on potential policy changes, but the case of Tex the grizzly bear remains a poignant reminder of the complexities involved in wildlife conservation and community safety.
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