Conservationist, colorful writer. British-born, Belaney came to Canada as masqueraded as a Native Indian. Popularized conservation theme in his books and lecture tours, especially in Britain. In Canada he was appointed to run beaver preservation programs in Riding Mountain and Prince Albert national parks. His ruse was uncovered three years before his death, but no particular discredit occurred, and Gray Owl continues to be known as a pioneer conservationist to this day. Pierce Brosnan starred in a movie about “Gray Owl” in 1999.