Ely Bear and Cubs to be relocated

[Realtree]

Eagles Nest Township bear and cubs to be relocated (January 2, 2008)

A female black bear and her two cubs that are hibernating under a seasonal cabin near Ely will be relocated to a captive facility where they can be cared for and not have uncontrolled interactions with people, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

“This solution satisfies our original and primary concern about public safety,” said Michael DonCarlos, DNR wildlife research and policy manager. “The typical behavior of a black bear, like any wild animal, is to avoid humans. This bear is habituated to humans and has lost its fear of people, which makes it impossible to predict its behavior.”

The bears’ new home is yet to be determined, but the bears will not be euthanized, he said. The DNR is considering several locations, taking into account what will be best for the bears’ welfare.

“The DNR believes this is a good option because it accomplishes the goal of preventing the bear and cubs from engaging in uncontrolled interactions with people,” DonCarlos said.

A final decision about where the bears will be relocated, as well as how and when they will be moved, has not been made.