North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre, a not-for-profit organization that cares for the well-being of wildlife on Vancouver Island, B.C., says it has admitted two young orphaned black bear cubs. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Handout-North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre (mandatory credit)

By The Canadian Press

Two orphaned Island bear cubs rescued af

Two orphaned Island bear cubs rescued after mom found dead

Apr 6, 2026 | 11:45 AM

ERRINGTON — A wildlife sanctuary near Parksville has taken in two young black bear cubs after their mother was found dead in their den.

Errington-based North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre (NIWRC) stated in a Facebook post that the cubs were discovered by members of the public and they are the centre’s first intakes of 2026.

The recovery centre believes the mother was killed in a predator attack.

It says that it’s always unfortunate when wildlife need its care, but they are “grateful these cubs were found and given a second chance.”

Since their arrival, the centre says the two cubs have grown “leaps and bounds” from just 1.5 kilograms to almost 5.5 kilograms, and continue to put on weight quickly.

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It says most B.C. black and brown bears hibernate for four to six months a year, emerging around April, although Vancouver Island bears may come out earlier because of the milder climate.

NIWRC houses dozens of permanent and release-worthy animals at its Leffler Rd. compound, including bears, various small birds and raptors.

Information on donating to or volunteering at NIWRC can be found here.

The facility is open daily for a fee to view the animals from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Canadian Press

by The Canadian Press

Two orphaned Island bear cubs rescued after mom found dead

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