Re: "Hungry bruin kills grizzlies," June 19.
We were shocked to learn of the needless deaths of two young and healthy grizzly bears, caused, apparently, by the rushed plan to radio collar the bears in the area.
It seems most unusual that after 30 years' experience, the park warden claims never to have seen such predation, yet we wonder why all these snares were not removed immediately.
Why weren't live-hold culvert-type bear traps used? Bears often damage themselves in snares even if checked daily.
If a "very hungry" bear caused the predation, wouldn't it have stayed at the site and fully consumed it, which a daily check would have revealed? If not fully consumed, then the trapper, I expect, would immediately remove all the other snares set in the area. Why wait "four days" and the loss of another precious bear?
It appears that proper care, planning and concern was lacking. I expect it was a rush program due to the impending G-8 summit.
George V. Clements
Vancouver, B.C.
George Clements is director of The Fur-Bearers.
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