Rehabilitating grizzlies is worth trying

Letter
Published: Monday, January 16, 2006

Re: Orphaned grizzlies won't be transferred, Jan. 10

Matt Austin's comment that we can't handle two orphaned grizzly cubs is simply wrong. We have space to accommodate them. What we need (and have funding for) is to enlarge our facility to accommodate the cubs as they grow, as well as allow room for cubs that might come up this year or the next.

While we agree that these cubs are not the best candidates for rehabilitation, we feel that there is no harm in trying. The Calgary Zoo is not able to keep them and a new home has not yet been found.

Bringing the cubs here would give them a fair chance at rehabilitation and, if rehab is not possible, allow the government to find a new permanent home with more than a year to spare. No bear would be released unless deemed suitable by us, B.C. wildlife officials and other bear experts. There are absolutely no costs to the taxpayer and no danger to the public in going this route.

Though we have yet to rehabilitate grizzlies, both my husband and I worked with them in zoos. We have successfully raised and released hundreds of animals, including black bears and a Kermode bear. Every effort would be made to give the cubs a fair chance without jeopardizing public safety.

Angelika Langen

Northern Lights Wildlife Society

Smithers
© The Vancouver Sun 2006