Colorado records a record number of bear attacks on people
In Colorado, USA, 10 bear attacks on people have been recorded this year, which wildlife officials called an unprecedented figure. The latest two incidents occurred two days apart: a black bear injured a woman at a campsite and scratched a 17-year-old girl who was sleeping in a bedroom, The Guardian World reports.
Bite at a campsite
On Friday, a woman at a campsite in southwestern Colorado heard growling and felt an impact against her tent. She received treatment for a puncture wound to her arm that authorities assessed as consistent with a black bear bite.
Wildlife officers found claw marks on the tent and collected several dark hairs. Monte Vista area wildlife manager Rick Basagoitia said the bite was likely the animal's reaction to being startled rather than an act of aggression. According to him, there had previously been no bear conflicts or damage incidents in the area.
Bear in the bedroom
Two days later, a bear opened a partially open window, tore off the mosquito screen and entered a bedroom where a 17-year-old girl was sleeping. She woke up and hid under blankets, after which the animal struck her abdomen with its paw. Three scratches remained on the girl's body.
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Area wildlife manager Luke Clancy noted that the girl was protected by several blankets that covered her.
Drought and the search for food
According to officials, a statewide drought has reduced the availability of food for black bears, which mainly feed on berries, fruit and insects. Before hibernation, the animals can consume up to 20,000 calories a day, so they seek new food sources near human homes.
Wildlife officials urged residents and tourists to securely close garbage containers and lock windows, doors, garages and vehicles.
