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Fisherman Bitten in Bear Attack Near Platte Rivers
23 Aug
Summary
- A fisherman was attacked by a bear near the Platte rivers in Jefferson County.
- The bear, a 50-60 pound subadult, was tracked and euthanized by wildlife officers.
- This incident highlights increased bear activity due to hyperphagia and drought.
A fisherman sustained leg injuries from a bear attack in Jefferson County, Colorado, near the confluence of the Platte rivers. The man was reportedly walking towards a trail parking lot when a bear, believed to be a subadult female weighing 50-60 pounds, attacked him. His friends intervened to scare the bear away.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife officers responded, locating and euthanizing the bear the following morning. This marks the sixth bear attack reported this year. Officials cite drought conditions reducing natural food sources and bears entering the hyperphagia stage, leading to increased human-bear conflict.
CPW advises residents to secure outdoor food sources like trash, grills, and bird feeders. When outdoors, staying aware, in groups, and carrying bear spray are recommended. In an encounter, people should move away quietly; if a bear approaches, they should stand their ground and shout at it. If attacked, aggressive defense is advised.
