A bear cub in Maple Ridge, British Columbia, was rescued thanks to concerned neighbors who heard its distress calls in their backyards. Liz Silva was the first to hear the cries early on a Tuesday morning, spotting the tiny, young bear in distress. Hoping for the mother’s return, Silva kept a close eye on the cub, maintaining a safe distance and seeking assistance.
After contacting conservation authorities, Silva was advised to wait for the mother’s potential return, but by Wednesday afternoon, the cub was still alone. Concerned about the cub’s dehydration, Silva expressed a wish for quicker action. Another neighbor, Alana Lofgren, also monitored the bear’s cries throughout the day.
Silva prepared a shelter with a cardboard box and blanket under her patio in case the bear needed refuge from the rain. Critter Care Wildlife Society, located in Langley, successfully rescued the bear cub with permission from the Ministry of Environment and Parks.
B.C. bear viewing guide Ellie Lamb, with over 30 years of experience, noted the cub’s young age and vulnerability. She highlighted the cub’s slim chances of survival without its mother’s milk and the looming threats of coyotes and other bears in the area.
Lamb emphasized the importance of rescuing the cub, as it lacked the ability to climb trees, was exhausted from crying, and faced significant risks if left unattended. The community rallied behind the cub’s survival efforts, showing compassion for the young animal’s plight.