An unexpected encounter with a Grizzly Bear leads to hospitalization in Shoshone National Forest.
- Man injured in grizzly bear attack while working in Shoshone National Forest.
- Swift first aid administered, followed by airlift to hospital for treatment.
- Bear encounter during survey work triggers emergency response.
- Game and Fish Department investigates, no bear found on site.
The Close-Range Bear Encounter
In Shoshone National Forest, northwest of Dubois, Wyoming, about 75 miles from Jackson Hole, a man’s survey work took a dangerous turn when he was injured in a grizzly bear attack. It was described as an aggressive defensive encounter and it was a close-range attack which made using bear spray impossible. The man said that he protected himself by dropping to the ground until the bear eventually left the area. Medical help arrived quickly, and they flew the injured man to the hospital. The bear could not be located by the Wyoming Game and Fish department during the investigation and remains at large.
Assessing the Situation
The man’s encounter with the grizzly bear in Shoshone National Forest sheds light on the unpredictability of surprise bear encounters. Despite an response by wildlife officials, the fact that the bear has eluded detection, serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance when working in bear country.
Learning from Grizzly Encounters
The Shoshone National Forest grizzly bear attack, only 75 miles from Jackson, serves as a cautionary tale. It highlights the importance of preparedness and awareness when working outdoors i n bear country. Authorities say to avoid similar situations, it’s essential to remain informed, equipped, and respectful of the environment we share with grizzlies. For more information on Wyoming bears and how to act in an encounter, visit the Bear Wise Wyoming Page and ‘Grizzly and Black Bears – What’s the Difference.’
Lots of Bear Reports
Reports of grizzly sightings have been numerous in the region since the animals awoke from hibernation beginning in March. A woman was recently killed as she walked a trail alone near West Yellowstone, Montana.
A hunter in Southern Montana was forced to shoot a grizzly after a surprise encounter in the Madison Range southeast of Ennis.
Bear Spray Can Save Lives
In regions where bears and humans coexist. The Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee emphasizes safety. The IGBC says arming oneself with bear spray when venturing into bear habitat, whether for living, working, or leisure, is important. Bear spray acts as a deterrent and a safeguard against potential encounters. However, bear spray is not a stand-alone solution; it must be part of a strategy to avoid bear encounters in the first place
Guidelines for Bear Spray:
- Opt for products clearly designed for deterring bear attacks.
- The spray should be registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
- Follow the instructions provided on the bear spray’s label.
- In some cases, having two cans of bear spray could be necessary.
- Bear spray should only be used in aggressive or attacking encounters with bears.
- It is not a repellent for people, gear, or surroundings; its purpose is to deter bears by creating an airborne deterrent cloud. So don’t spray it on yourself.
- Never approach, interact with, or feed bears – bear spray is not a substitute for maintaining a safe distance and respecting their space.
He attends Clemson University.
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