Grinder, a grizzly bear at Grouse Mountain Resort in North Vancouver, British Columbia, was euthanized after developing a spinal condition [1].
As one of the most recognized animals at the resort, Grinder's death marks the end of a long-term residency that drew thousands of visitors to the mountain. His presence served as a primary attraction for the facility and a point of connection between the public and grizzly bears.
The decision to euthanize the bear followed a medical diagnosis that left his hind legs paralyzed [1]. Veterinarians and staff said euthanasia was the most humane option given the severity of the spinal condition [1].
Grinder was 25 years old at the time of his death [2]. His history with the facility began decades ago when he was found as an orphaned cub in 2001 [3]. Since then, he became a fixture of the North Vancouver landscape, living as one of two beloved grizzly bears at the resort [4].
The loss of the bear is felt across the community in British Columbia, where he was viewed as an iconic figure of the region's wildlife. The resort's management said they handled the process to ensure the animal did not suffer further from his loss of mobility.
“Grinder was 25 years old at the time of his death”
The death of Grinder highlights the challenges of long-term captive care for large apex predators, specifically the management of degenerative spinal issues in aging bears. As these animals reach their mid-twenties, the transition from active residency to palliative care becomes a critical operational and ethical concern for wildlife resorts.
