Protect Bear 122 (The Boss)
The Issue
Bear 122, affectionately known as "The Boss," is more than just a grizzly bear; he is a emblematic presence in Banff National Park, a true testament to the majestic wilderness of Canada. However, this iconic creature's future hangs in the balance, as recent discussions within Parks Canada have brought forth the possibility of lethally removing him due to concerns over public safety. In an email obtained by CTV News from April 2025, officials cited his advanced age, declining condition, and level of habituation as reasons for potentially managing him "more aggressively."
This potential course of action is deeply troubling for those who cherish the natural heritage of our national parks. "The Boss" has lived a long, healthy life, and his domain is a vital part of our ecosystem. His presence is crucial to maintain the balance among the grizzlies and offers a unique opportunity for research and public education about wildlife conservation.
Alternative solutions must be pursued instead of considering the drastic step of euthanasia. Non-invasive measures, such as enhancing public education on grizzly bear awareness and implementing more stringent guidelines for human-bear interactions, could mitigate the risks associated with bear habituation. It is imperative that human safety is ensured without compromising the lives of the wildlife that make Banff so extraordinary.
Furthermore, collared research and continuous monitoring of Bear 122 can provide invaluable insights into his health condition and behaviours. This approach would enable concerned authorities to make informed decisions about his future, balancing both public safety and wildlife preservation.
Compassionate management practices will not only preserve "The Boss," but also sustain the legacy of our parks as sanctuaries for wildlife and as spaces where humans respectfully coexist with nature.
Join us in urging Parks Canada to prioritize and invest in non-lethal alternatives to ensure Bear 122 lives the remainder of his life peacefully and safely in his natural habitat. Your signature can make a vital difference. Please sign this petition to protect "The Boss."
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The Issue
Bear 122, affectionately known as "The Boss," is more than just a grizzly bear; he is a emblematic presence in Banff National Park, a true testament to the majestic wilderness of Canada. However, this iconic creature's future hangs in the balance, as recent discussions within Parks Canada have brought forth the possibility of lethally removing him due to concerns over public safety. In an email obtained by CTV News from April 2025, officials cited his advanced age, declining condition, and level of habituation as reasons for potentially managing him "more aggressively."
This potential course of action is deeply troubling for those who cherish the natural heritage of our national parks. "The Boss" has lived a long, healthy life, and his domain is a vital part of our ecosystem. His presence is crucial to maintain the balance among the grizzlies and offers a unique opportunity for research and public education about wildlife conservation.
Alternative solutions must be pursued instead of considering the drastic step of euthanasia. Non-invasive measures, such as enhancing public education on grizzly bear awareness and implementing more stringent guidelines for human-bear interactions, could mitigate the risks associated with bear habituation. It is imperative that human safety is ensured without compromising the lives of the wildlife that make Banff so extraordinary.
Furthermore, collared research and continuous monitoring of Bear 122 can provide invaluable insights into his health condition and behaviours. This approach would enable concerned authorities to make informed decisions about his future, balancing both public safety and wildlife preservation.
Compassionate management practices will not only preserve "The Boss," but also sustain the legacy of our parks as sanctuaries for wildlife and as spaces where humans respectfully coexist with nature.
Join us in urging Parks Canada to prioritize and invest in non-lethal alternatives to ensure Bear 122 lives the remainder of his life peacefully and safely in his natural habitat. Your signature can make a vital difference. Please sign this petition to protect "The Boss."
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Petition created on September 23, 2026