Tex the Grizzly Bear captured the nation’s attention after swimming to Texada Island, a small but populated island off Canada’s west coast. His journey amazed many. But this young bear’s story ended in tragedy. Someone shot and killed Tex without government approval.
Tex, a four-year-old male, reached the island on 25 May. His arrival started heated debates about how to handle wild predators near humans. While some locals feared for their safety, Indigenous communities offered solutions to relocate him safely.
Officials claimed Tex the Grizzly Bear posed a danger to residents. They cited earlier reports that Tex had followed two people on the mainland. Though authorities didn’t order his death, they warned they would act if he threatened anyone again.
Meanwhile, leaders from the Tla’amin, shíshálh, and Homalco First Nations worked on a peaceful solution. They proposed relocating Tex to Homalco territory. Their plan included expert input from biologist Wayne McCrory and support from the Mamalilikulla First Nation.
However, the province took too long to respond. Tensions on the island escalated. Some of Texada’s 1,200 residents began patrolling with guns.
Katrin Glenn, who created the “Save Tex” Facebook group, tried to warn others. She once saw Tex near her farm. “He walked along the fence line respectfully,” she recalled. “He was a gentle bear.”
On Tuesday, someone shot Tex the Grizzly Bear. He died before relocation efforts could begin. The Conservation Officer Service confirmed they had launched an investigation into the illegal killing.
Tla’amin Nation issued a powerful statement: “We are deeply saddened by this outcome. Tex’s life mattered, and our Nations had united to find a peaceful solution.”
Chief John Powell of the Mamalilikulla First Nation said he felt heartbroken and angry. “We saw the warning signs when government officials resisted our plan,” he explained. “This situation will happen again if we don’t change the system.”
In 2019, British Columbia passed laws to align with the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. But this case shows a disconnect between those laws and real-world actions.
Randene Neill, minister of water, land, and resource stewardship, expressed regret. She said officials were working with First Nations at the time of Tex’s death. But many observers argue the government acted too slowly.
Nicholas Scapillati, CEO of the Grizzly Bear Foundation, called the death avoidable. “I hope Tex didn’t die in vain,” he said. “Let’s create a better process and learn from this.”
The story of Tex the Grizzly Bear highlights deeper tensions in Canada. These include clashes between conservation, Indigenous rights, and local fears. Without clear systems and faster responses, future cases may end the same way.
Tex symbolized more than just a wandering animal. He represented the need for respect, partnership, and timely action. If anything good can come from this, it must be meaningful change.
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