Dealing with a record breaking number of black bear cubs, the Northern Lights Wildlife Shelter in Smithers is looking to expand.
A new and expanded black bear enclosure is in the works. The cover the $35,000 expected budget for the project, world renowned wildlife photographer John Marriott has launched a fundraiser.
Anyone who donates more than $50 will be entered in a draw to win a trip to the Great Bear Chalet in Bella Coola. Pieces of Marriott’s photography will also be awarded to three others, while top donators will get a prize.
With 25 black bear cubs in their care already, Shelter co founder Angelika Langen says they expect even more come the fall.
“We don’t want to be caught in a situation where we’re turning bears down…the shelter is growing in the long-run, so this is really needed anyway…When the food becomes less available, the bears are showing up around people and that’s when we typically get more cubs”
The shelter is going through more than $500 worth of fruit and vegetables to feed the bears, and are accepting donations that way as well. (previous story)
w/ files from Daryl Vandenberg MY BULKLEY LAKES NOW
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