Bear wanders Saratoga

A young black bear reported being seen in several areas of Saratoga may not have a favorable future, according to the Saratoga Game Warden.

The black bear, estimated to be 1 or 2 years old was first spotted at the Saratoga Resort and Spa the evening of July 5. Since then, the bear has been spotted at least five times in various areas of Saratoga, leaving signs of its presence by going through trash cans, Burton said.

Burton said he has yet to see the bear, despite making efforts to capture the animal alive.

“We have been unable to capture him just because his movements are so random,” Burton said. “We have been one step behind him.”

Burton said ranchers reported the bear July 6. The bear was also seen at Deer Haven Trailer Court July 8, both sightings occurring at night.

The third sighting prompted Burton to set up a live trap at the trailer park. Burton said the last reported bear sighting was July 14 where the animal got into trash on Myrtle Street.

“The town of Saratoga is like a huge buffet to him,” Burton said.

Burton said there is a chance he or another law enforcement officer may have to euthanize the bear because of its developing dependence on human surroundings as a food source.

“The future does not look bright for this bear,” Burton said. “He will now be drawn towards humans.

Burton said, because the bear continues to rely on Saratoga as a food source, it will most likely “get in trouble” again if relocated.

“This bear cannot be rehabilitated and he cannot be taken anywhere that is remote enough …,” Burton said. “It is a possibility that this bear will be euthanized.”

Although euthanization is a real possibility, Burton said he won’t know what he will do with the bear until he catches it. Burton said the alternative option is to catch and release the bear.

Burton hopes to catch the bear soon.

“I have been chasing this bear for 10 days now and I haven’t seen him,” Burton said.

The Wyoming Game and Fish deal with bear problems frequently in the summer. However, the case with this bear is unusual because it chose to stick around, Burton said.

Burton said, if one comes in contact with the bear, try to avoid it. If you met face-to-face with the bear, Burton said the best course of action is to make yourself look large and make noises. However, avoidance of the animal is the most practical course of action, Burton said.

If you see the bear, contact the Saratoga Police Department or call the Wyoming Game and Fish at 1-877-WGFDTIP.

 

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