Idaho Wildlife Officials Study Bear Activity

Over the past two weeks Idaho Department of Fish & Game personnel have been working with residents and local law enforcement to determine not just why bears have been frequenting the area near Driggs, but what species of bear is involved.  Spokesman Greg Losinski explains that what options the state has for management depends on whether the animals are black bears or grizzly bears.  If the bear is a black bear, the state has authority, but if it is a grizzly, primary management falls to the US Fish and Wildlife Service.  The bear most recently getting a lot of attention in the vicinity of Darby and Teton Canyons is more than likely a grizzly sow with a cub.  Losinski says in the wake of the activity, Fish and Game personnel have been going door-to-door to help residents learn how to bear-proof their residences.  Losinski says people in that area need to particularly keep in mind at this time that they live in bear country and take appropriate precautions.