COS destroys bear that attacked hiker on Squamish trail

Conservation Officers have put down a black bear that attacked a hiker in Squamish over the weekend, according to the latest update by the service.

Conservation officers had been searching for the bear that attacked the woman hiking along the Coho Trail. The incident happened on Saturday at approx. 7 pm when the bear followed and swatted the woman. COS says the woman used a piece of lumber to defend herself and a passing cyclist also came to her aid. Together, they fought the bear off but it followed them along the trail. The woman was not seriously injured.

During their investigation, Conservation Officers learned two other groups of people had also been approached by a bear in the same area in separate incidents shortly after the first attack. The bear also followed the groups but they managed to scare it away. One black bear in the vicinity of the attack site was killed on Sunday.

Based on description provided by the witnesses, physical evidence and location, Conservation Officers believe that was the bear responsible for the attack. No other bears were seen during a sweep of the area. The trails will remain closed until at least Thursday as Conservation Officers continue to monitor for any further bear activity in the area.

The COS encourages people to take precautions in case of wildlife encounters, including travelling in groups, ensuring pets are leashed and carrying bear spray. For more tips, visit WildSafeBC. Conservation Officer Service is appealing to the public to travel in groups and know bear aware behaviours when hiking in local trails.