The B.C. Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) says a pile of skinned bear paws found near Anglemont in May of last year was inadvertently dumped there by a taxidermist.

In a statement Thursday, they say the person responsible “was in lawful possession of the wildlife parts” and that the animal parts were left along Forest Road 695 – in the Anglemont Mountain area – after it accidentally fell out of the back of a truck.

Acting Chief Conservation Officer Cam Schley says that person has cooperated with investigators and made a “substantial voluntary donation” to the Little Shuswap Lake Band’s Watershed Stewardship Guardian Program, in lieu of a $115 fine for littering.

Schley says the donation “far exceeds the fine amount” noting the money will go towards keeping the community and wildlife safe by reducing bear conflicts.

“We understand the public is passionate about wildlife and recognize this scene was alarming and concerning to many Indigenous communities, British Columbians and others,” Schley said, noting this incident is not linked to an illegal black market operation in the trafficking of bear or other wildlife parts.

“We hope the conclusion of this investigation, which confirms this was not related to poaching, helps alleviate distress and bring closure to the public.”

He also reminded hunters and taxidermists that they are required to dispose of wildlife remains in a lawful and ethical manner to avoid attracting wildfires and alarming passersby.