Bears

“The bear is what we think of when we’re alone in the woods.” (Marion Kilson). To many First Nations the bear is known as the protector and represents courage and strength. As apex predators, Bears keep a balanced and healthy population of animals by controlling deer and elk populations, preventing overgrazing and ensuring plant diversity. Their foraging helps to sew seeds and fosters forest growth. In coastal areas, Bears often feed on salmon, moving nutrients from the rivers back to the forest and helping to build healthy ecosystems.