Signs are being posted around Westwood Lake park after a black bear aggressively charged at a man and his children on Tuesday, June 2. (Image Credit: Ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

westwood lake

Conservation officers alerted after bear ‘bluff charged’ Nanaimo family

Jun 2, 2026 | 5:47 PM

NANAIMO — Members from the B.C. Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) are aware of an aggressive black bear in the Westwood Lake area.

Reports were made to both the City of Nanaimo and the BCCOS on Tuesday, June 2, related to an aggressive bear, which the Service said “bluff charged” a man and his children twice, while they walked along the trail.

“The BCCOS is advising the public to be aware of a black bear that has been frequenting the trails around Westwood Lake Park, particularly the southeast corner of the park,” a statement from the Ministry of Environment to NanaimoNewsNOW read.

No injuries have been reported in connection to the animal, and additional signage was posted on Tuesday, advising people of the risk.

“Conservation officers are working collaboratively with the City of Nanaimo to provide recommendations and information,” the Ministry’s statement continued.

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Those venturing along the Westwood Lake Park trails are advised to ensure they’re familiar with safety precautions for bear and wildlife encounters, including “travelling in groups, leashing pets and carrying bear spray.”

The Ministry said Conservation officers “are continuing to monitor bear activity in the area and will respond as necessary to ensure public safety.”

Anyone who sees aggressive bear behaviour is asked to call the RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277.

Bear sightings this time of year are common on Vancouver Island, with animals awaking from winter hibernation and seeking food.

Isolated reports have been made across the region of human-bear interactions, however there have been no confirmed incidents similar to Westwood Lake’s recent encounter.

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by NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

Conservation officers alerted after bear ‘bluff charged’ Nanaimo family

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