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Two sub-adult grizzly bears making their way through agricultural fields a short distance north of Powell are still avoiding trapping efforts by Wyoming Game and Fish Department officials.
The …
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Two sub-adult grizzly bears making their way through agricultural fields a short distance north of Powell are still avoiding trapping efforts by Wyoming Game and Fish Department officials.
The bears have been rumored by local residents to be moving east, seeking safe habitat, but there have been no reports or bear sightings to support the rumors. Game and Fish officials moved the two traps that were northwest of the city in a field east of the Dendrite Lane and Road 11 intersection after the bears moved on shortly after being photographed foraging in a field.
When asked why the traps were moved late last week, an official said the traps were pulled due to pressure from locals and lookie-loos who may have spooked the bears the first night the traps were set, the official said. With bear conflicts increasing recently, the Large Carnivore Team, based in the Cody Region office, has been working overtime to respond to all requests.
Today the department official said there are no updates or additional activity to report.
On average, 200 grizzly bear cubs are born each year in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, according to the agency. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department has an extensive grizzly bear management program that includes research and monitoring, conflict management, education and outreach. The foundation of this program is rooted in education and outreach and working with the public to reduce the potential for conflict between grizzly bears and people.
The department has trapped and relocated or removed more than 2,300 grizzly bears since 1990 and records an average of 231 verified human/grizzly conflicts per year. Specialized large carnivore teams respond to conflicts involving property damage, livestock depredation and public safety. Staff mitigate risks, assist communities and work to prevent human-wildlife conflicts through proactive management, including relocation and removal.
Through the Bear Wise Wyoming program, the Game and Fish promotes bear safety to hunters, campers, landowners and communities. Outreach helps reduce conflict potential and fosters understanding and tolerance for grizzly bears, according to the department.
