Colorado wildlife officials are investigating a persistent black bear encounter that occurred Sunday at Apex Park near Golden, where a hiker was scratched and followed for 30 minutes. Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) spokeswoman Kara Van Hoose stated the animal’s behavior—continuing to track the hiker despite yelling and rock throwing—suggests the bear may be food-conditioned rather than predatory. The park remains closed while agents search for the animal to determine if it poses a continued threat to public safety.
Why do bears lose their fear of humans?
Bears become comfortable around people primarily when they associate human activity with easy food sources, according to British Columbia bear researcher Lana Ciarniello. When trash, pet food, or human snacks are left accessible, bears learn to overcome their natural wariness of humans. This behavior, known as food-conditioning, often leads to the persistent following behavior reported by the hiker in Apex Park. Unlike a predatory attack, which typically involves a stealthy, confident approach, a food-conditioned bear is often motivated by the search for an easy calorie reward.
The International Bear Association distinguishes between aggressive types: a predatory bear approaches with its head held high and ears erect, while a food-conditioned bear may exhibit “persistent” curiosity or tailing behavior to secure a food item.
What happens when a bear becomes a public safety risk?
If wildlife officials conclude that a bear has developed a pattern of aggressive, human-seeking behavior, it may be euthanized. CPW officials are currently assessing whether the bear involved in the Apex Park incident is sick, malnourished, or simply habituated to humans. According to CPW, the decision to remove or euthanize a bear depends on whether the animal’s behavior is an isolated incident or part of a broader trend of boldness. In this specific case, the bear continued to follow the hiker even after two other people arrived to assist, demonstrating a level of persistence that officials categorize as highly unusual.
How can hikers stay safe in bear country?
Experts recommend that anyone recreating in areas with bear populations should carry bear spray and complete formal safety training. While it remains unconfirmed if the hiker in the Apex Park incident was carrying deterrents, the International Bear Association emphasizes that if a bear initiates contact, the situation requires immediate, forceful defense. Hikers should avoid leaving food waste in parks and ensure that all trash is packed out to prevent attracting wildlife to high-traffic trails.
Pro Tips for Trail Safety
- Carry Deterrents: Keep bear spray in an easily accessible holster, not inside your backpack.
- Stay Alert: Avoid using headphones while hiking so you can hear movement in the brush.
- Group Up: Bears are less likely to approach larger groups of people.
- Respect Closures: If a park is closed due to bear activity, do not attempt to bypass trail markers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if a bear follows me?
Do not run. Stand your ground, make yourself look as large as possible, and speak in a calm, firm voice while slowly backing away. If the bear is persistent, use bear spray if available.
Are all bear encounters predatory?
No. Most encounters are defensive or motivated by food-conditioning. True predatory attacks are rare and characterized by a persistent, stalking approach.
Why was the Apex Park trail closed?
CPW closed the trail to ensure public safety while investigators search for the bear to determine if it presents a recurring threat to other hikers.
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