The Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) has relocated an adult male grizzly bear to the Five Mile Creek drainage, approximately 41 miles west of Cody. The bear was captured on August 15 after it was found depredating livestock northwest of Thermopolis.

“Relocation is a last resort for us,” said WGFD Large Carnivore Supervisor Dan Thompson. “We only relocate bears when it is the best option to reduce the risk of future conflicts with people.”

In this case, the bear had been repeatedly returning to the same area to feed on livestock. The WGFD tried a variety of non-lethal methods to deter the bear, but they were unsuccessful.

“We used hazing techniques, such as firing rubber bullets and bean bags, but the bear didn’t seem to be deterred,” said Thompson. “We also tried setting traps, but the bear was too smart for us.”

The decision to relocate the bear was made after careful consideration of all the factors involved. The WGFD consulted with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and they agreed that relocation was the best option.

“We chose the Five Mile Creek drainage because it is a remote area with plenty of natural food sources,” said Thompson. “We also believe that the bear will be less likely to encounter people in that area.”

The WGFD will continue to monitor the bear to ensure that it is adjusting well to its new home. They also encourage the public to help reduce the risk of human-bear conflicts by taking the following precautions:

• Keep all attractants away from bears, including food, garbage, and pet food.
• Store food and garbage in bear-resistant containers.
• Do not feed bears, even if they seem friendly.
• Be aware of your surroundings when recreating in bear country.

For more information on grizzly bear management, please visit the WGFD website or the Bear Wise Wyoming website.

©️ Rocky Mountain Dispatch 2023