Grizzly bear sighting in Lions Bay has experts divided. Is it a black bear?
The organization said it consulted a bear guide before issuing the warning, but a member of the Grizzly Bear Foundation believes the bear is not a grizzly.
A warning issued by Lions Bay Search and Rescue has sparked debate among bear experts. On Monday, the organization shared a warning about a young male bear seen in the area, which was initially identified as a grizzly bear. However, Nicholas Scapillati, a member of the Grizzly Bear Foundation, now believes it is actually a black bear.
Scapillati consulted with several experts, including biologists and bear viewing guides, before reaching his conclusion. The primary differences between grizzly and black bears, according to Scapillati, include larger ears, a more prominent facial dish, and a distinctive hump on the back of their front shoulders, which the bear in question lacks.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the bear's species, Scapillati expressed excitement that the public is engaging with wildlife sightings in the area. He emphasized the importance of giving bears space, carrying bear spray, managing attractants, keeping dogs leashed, and avoiding startling the animals.
Written by urgent.news from Global News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
