The Current How a grizzly on a B.C. island sent a community into crisis
Dec 31, 2025
Katrin Glenn-Bittner, a Texada Island resident and founder of the 'Save Tex' campaign, and Eric Blaney, a representative for local First Nations, delve into the gripping tale of a grizzly bear named Tex who unexpectedly swam to their island. They discuss the community's rapid shift from curiosity to fear, the mixed emotions surrounding Tex's presence, and the efforts to relocate him amidst rising tensions. The podcast also highlights the deep involvement of First Nations in decision-making and reflects on the aftermath of Tex's tragic fate, calling for future policy changes.
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Close Encounter On The Trail
- Lynn Johnson describes a terrifying close encounter where the grizzly charged her while she led her horse and dog.
- She ran to her yard and collapsed with relief when the bear stopped chasing them.
Municipal Director's Close Sighting
- Sandy McCormick saw the bear from her porch and ran to the deck, narrowly avoiding a dangerous encounter.
- Conservation officers arrived with rifles and a drone and left without capturing the bear, leaving her shaken.
Grassroots Rescue Effort
- Katrin Glenn-Bittner created the Facebook page Save Tex and raised funds to translocate the bear.
- She says she contacted provincial ministries with a fully funded relocation plan but received no helpful response.