The stuffed grizzly bear which has stood for years on display for travelers at the Smithers Airport may be taking a trip of his own.
Grouse Mountain in Vancouver has approached the town about lending the Phantom of Hungry Hill to the mountain for their spring/summer tourist season to be part of the wildlife refuge displays.
The mountain currently houses two orphaned grizzly bears in a five acre habitat on the hill.
Mayor Taylor Bachrach says the bear could help generate more tourism to the Smithers area.
“It’s an idea that council supports. The bear can be an ambassador for our community. I know everyone is proud of the wilderness that we live in the middle of…He will be able to put our community on the map a little bit and maybe encourage someone visiting Vancouver to visit Smithers one day and check out where that bear called home.”
At last night’s meeting Council and Airport manager, Rob Blackburn discussed how Grouse Mountain would be required to safely transport and display the mount if it was to be lent to the mountain.