The BC Conservation Officer Service says it has solved the case of a large pile of bear paw skins found on the side of a dirt road in the Shuswap last year. The feet were found by a passerby in May 2021 along Forest Road 695 in the Anglemont Mountain area. About 100 feet were found, which is equivalent to 25 bears. The video posted on social media shocked the public. On Thursday, the BC Conservation Officer Service said an investigation found the legs accidentally fell out of the back of a traveler’s truck while he was traveling. The taxidermist was legally in possession of them. “The officer was cooperative in the investigation and resolution, making a substantial voluntary donation to the Little Shuswap Lake Band Watershed Stewardship Program. the area where the incident occurred,” BCCOS said. The donation was made in lieu of a $115 charge and “far exceeds” the fine. It will help train the Guardian Program “to keep their community safe and wildlife safe by reducing bear conflicts in their community through training in bear awareness, public safety and attractant management.” BCCOS stressed that the incident is not linked to an illegal black market operation of any kind. “We understand that the public is passionate about wildlife, and we recognize that this scene was troubling and troubling to many indigenous communities, British Columbians and others,” said Acting Conservation Chief Cam Schley. “We hope the conclusion of this investigation, which confirms that it is not related to poaching, will help ease the anxiety and bring closure to the public.”
