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Man arrested after trophy hunting incident

A man has been charged with several wildlife infractions in what the Conservation Office Service is calling a trophy hunting incident.

A man has been charged with several wildlife infractions in what the Conservation Office Service is calling a trophy hunting incident.

The investigation was launched when a large adult black bear carcass was spotted by CP Rail employees near Heather Mountain Lodge, east of Glacier National Park earlier this week. It was beheaded, de-pawed and de-skinned, an employee told the Times Review.

On Thursday, the incident was confirmed by Golden-Based conservation officer Alex Desjardins.

He dismissed speculation the bear was harvested for its paws; bear paw soup is a delicacy in some Asian countries. He said the bear was likely skinned as part of common practice when bear's are hunted.

However, he added, leaving the carcass behind is illegal.

"It is unlawful to leave behind edible portions of wildlife, the only exception being grizzly bear," said Desjardins. "You are required by law to remove the edible parts."

When asked if the incident could be considered trophy hunting, Desjardins replied positively.

An investigation into the incident was launched which led to the arrest of a man. No information about the accused was provided.

Gary Krestinsky, the president of the Revelstoke Rod and Gun Club, said these type of poaching incidents are common but rarely result in arrests.