Police, conservation officers search for a black bear suspected of killing a llama in Saanich, B.C.
Saanich Police are alerting the public after a black bear killed a llama at a southern Vancouver Island property on Monday afternoon and escaped when officers arrived.
The incident happened just after 4 p.m. in a rural area in the 4700 block of West Saanich Road.
Several officers saw the bear leave the area and searched for the animal with the B.C. Conservation Officer Service, however, the bear was not found.
Saanich Police spokesperson Const. Markus Anastasiades said the bear's behaviour is worrisome.
"Certainly this behaviour is something that I don't think I've ever seen. And, you know, it's unfortunate that someone's livestock has been killed."
Anastasiades says the bear could likely return and is warning property owners who have livestock or pets in the area to keep the animals in a secure place overnight.
He said the llama's owners are upset about what happened and want others to be aware of the bear.
"They really want to get the word out there to make sure people take any necessary action so they can to prevent any further attacks, because the bear has shown that it's not afraid to go after animals and it even appears not to be afraid of humans," said Anastasiades.
Euthanization likely
Sgt. Scott Norris with the B.C. Conservation Officer Service said there were reports the bear was spotted in West Saanich again on Tuesday morning.
He said it is unfortunate, but likely, that the animal will have to be euthanized when found.
"These habituated bears will reoffend if you try to move it somewhere else," said Norris Tuesday on On The Island, adding the bear appears to have no fear of humans and will look for another home or farm to find food sources if relocated.
Bears are currently hunting for food to stock up on before hibernation, and Norris said not only is it important, it is also the law, that people lock up household garbage to keep bears at bay.
Norris said conservation officers and police officers were actively looking for the animal Tuesday.
People are being asked to contact Saanich Police or the B.C. Conservation Service if they spot the bear.
To hear the complete interview with Sgt. Scott Norris on On The Island, tap here.
