The Kermode bear, also known as "spirit bear", is a genetically-unique subspecies of bear found in the central coast of British Columbia. Kermodeis are noted for the appearance in their gene pool of a recessive trait that gives a small percentage of their population white or cream-coloured coats. They are neither albino nor related to polar bears, instead being a color phase of the American black bear. Because of the ghostlike appearance of the bears, "spirit bears" hold a prominent place in the native mythology of the area.
The Kermodei subspecies ranges from Princess Royal Island to Prince Rupert Island on the coast, and inland toward Hazelton, British Columbia. It is known to the native poplulation as Moksgm’ol. In the February 2006 speech from the throne by the Government of British Columbia, the premier announced his government's intention to designate the Kermode or Spirit bear as British Columbia's official animal.
