A devastating outbreak has struck the Northern Lights Wildlife Shelter in Smithers, British Columbia, resulting in the deaths of five bears within a week.

Initial Outbreak and Investigation

The initial discovery on Monday morning revealed four bears deceased within their enclosures, prompting immediate concern and investigation. Tragically, a fifth bear, already exhibiting signs of illness, succumbed to the ailment on Wednesday despite intensive veterinary care.

Sarcocystis Identified as Likely Cause

Preliminary laboratory results released Saturday have identified sarcocystis as the likely culprit, a parasitic infection increasingly observed in both black bears and grizzly bears across the region in recent years. The parasite is transmitted through an intermediate host, which remains currently unknown.

Transmission and Preventative Measures

Authorities suspect the transmission vector may be contaminated meat or fish, leading to an immediate suspension of these food sources until thorough testing confirms freezing effectively eliminates the parasite. The parasite poses no risk of direct bear-to-bear transmission.

Ongoing Care and Monitoring

The shelter is currently focused on Cider, a young female bear displaying symptoms of the infection, who is receiving treatment with antibiotics and a specialized diet designed to support liver function.

Proactive Health Assessments

While the remaining bears in the affected group currently show no outward signs of illness, the shelter is proactively planning to tranquilize and collect blood samples from each animal to assess their liver function. This preemptive measure aims to detect any early indicators of the disease.

Shelter Appeals for Support

The shelter has issued a plea for financial assistance to cover the escalating veterinary costs associated with the outbreak and ongoing monitoring. The loss is particularly poignant as the bears were nearing their scheduled release back into the wild, approximately four weeks away.

Bears Identified

The deceased bears have been identified as Stout (rescued from Vernon), Gimlet (from Trail), and Kokanee, Bacardi, and Mimosa (all from Dawson Creek). A representative stated, “I don’t have words.”

Shelter's Role and Future Protocols

The Northern Lights Wildlife Shelter plays a crucial role in rehabilitating injured and orphaned bears, preparing them for a successful return to their natural habitat. The investigation into the source of the parasite and the effectiveness of freezing as a preventative measure is ongoing.

The community has rallied in support of the shelter, offering donations and volunteer assistance. The shelter continues to provide updates on Cider’s condition and the health of the remaining bears, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and financial support.