A North Vancouver man has been fined $5,000 for repeatedly feeding black bears and cubs at his home. Vitali Shevchenko pleaded guilty to one count of feeding dangerous wildlife after videos surfaced on social media in 2018, showing an adult and two children feeding a black bear and a cub from the window and door of their home. Shevchenko faced two charges under the Wildlife Act, but one was stayed. The British Columbia Conservation Officer Service investigated the case and has said that the majority of the fine will go towards the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation to support wildlife and habitat projects and environmental education programs.
Feeding wild animals is not only illegal but also dangerous, as it habituates them to humans and can lead to aggressive behavior. It is important to remember that wildlife should be left alone and not encouraged to interact with humans. Bears, in particular, are known to be attracted to food and can become aggressive if they associate humans with an easy meal. This behavior not only puts people in danger but can also lead to the unnecessary destruction of the animal if it becomes a threat to public safety.
The Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation supports numerous programs aimed at protecting and preserving wildlife and their habitats in British Columbia. The foundation’s work is crucial in maintaining a healthy ecosystem and ensuring that wildlife can thrive in their natural habitats. This fine serves as a reminder that wildlife laws exist to protect both animals and humans and that feeding dangerous wildlife is not only irresponsible but also illegal.