Black bear euthanized after approaching humans

Grand Teton National Park rangers euthanized a 125-pound female black bear Tuesday. Park officials said they took the action for reasons of public safety. The bear recently exhibited no fear of humans and approached people, including a couple sleeping in a tent. A black bear was reported approaching humans on the porch of a cabin in the Jenny Lake area last week. There were no injuries, but people used bear spray to chase off the animal. Rangers and biologists determined it was the same bear involved in both incidents. There were no food-storage violations in either case. There was another close call at around 6:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 21, when a visitor at Jenny Lake campground woke up to something on the other side of his tent. He exited the tent, with bear spray, to investigate what was going on. He saw a cinnamon colored bear approaching the tent from about 20 feet away. The man yelled to his wife to exit the tent. He then deployed his bear spray as they both waved and spoke loudly to chase the bear away. The bear sniffed the tent, and then stood on his hind legs looking at the couple and swatting the tent with damage to the tent. The couple continued to shout encouraging the bear to leave. Suddenly, as if something else scared the bear, the bear turned and ran away. The same bear was involved in other human interactions in the Jenny Lake area last week. Among the incidents, the bear approached a visitor who was sleeping in a chair at his campsite, walked onto the porch of a cabin, and approached a member of the park’s wildlife brigade. Park staff began searching for the bear last Wednesday. It was successfully trapped Tuesday morning, June 27. Because of its numerous, fearless actions, the bear was removed. The park pointed out that black bears are not good candidates for zoos or other accredited facilities because they are so plentiful across the United States. Rangers continue to remind visitors to hike in groups, make noise when hiking, and have bear spray readily accessible. Park visitors are reminded that all campgrounds and developed areas should be clean and free of trash and food. Park regulations require that all edibles, food containers and cookware be stored in a hard-sided vehicle or food storage locker when not in use, day or night. Do not burn waste in fire rings or leave litter in campsites. Fire rings should be free of trash before vacating a campsite.