‘Orphaned’ bear cub captured, wouldn’t have survived without mom, Idaho rescuers say
A small “orphaned” black bear cub was captured because it wouldn’t have survived the winter alone, wildlife officials said.
The cub was seen wandering along the Salmon River Road near Panther Creek for several days, Idaho Fish and Game said in a Dec. 14 news release.
Wildlife officials said they decided to capture the bear because it wasn’t hibernating with its mom.
“The cub was born around last February and likely would not survive the winter on its own,” wildlife manager Dennis Newman said.
Since the bear was not accustomed to humans or their food it was taken to a wildlife rehabilitator, officials said.
Now, the cub will spend the winter in an enclosure with another cub. Officials said it will be released in the summer.
About 20,000 to 30,000 black bears live in Idaho, according to wildlife officials.
Panther Creek is in northeast Idaho.
What to do if you see a bear
Bear attacks in the U.S. are rare, according to the National Park Service. In most attacks, bears are trying to defend their food, cubs or space.
There are steps people can take to help prevent a bear encounter from becoming a bear attack.
Identify yourself: Talk calmly and slowly wave your arms. This can help the bear realize you’re a human and nonthreatening.
Stay calm: Bears usually don’t want to attack; they want to be left alone. Talk slowly and with a low voice to the bear.
Don’t scream: Screaming could trigger an attack.
Pick up small children: Don’t let kids run away from the bear. It could think they’re small prey.
Hike in groups: A group is noisier and smellier, the National Park Service said. Bears like to keep their distance from groups of people.
Make yourself look big: Move to higher ground and stand tall. Don’t make any sudden movements.
Don’t drop your bag: A bag on your back can keep a bear from accessing food, and it can provide protection.
Walk away slowly: Move sideways so you appear less threatening to the bear. This also lets you keep an eye out.
Again, don’t run: Bears will chase you, just like a dog would.
Don’t climb trees: Grizzlies and black bears can also climb.
This story was originally published December 15, 2023 at 10:00 AM with the headline "‘Orphaned’ bear cub captured, wouldn’t have survived without mom, Idaho rescuers say."
