Grizzly Bear Injures Archery Hunter in Northern Idaho Attack

An archery hunter suffered injuries during a grizzly bear attack on Sunday in a remote region of Idaho, as confirmed by wildlife officials. The incident took place near Henrys Lake in Island Park, a secluded area approximately 60 miles west of Yellowstone National Park, noted for its stunning natural landscapes.

The hunter was in pursuit of elk in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest when he unexpectedly encountered the adult grizzly bear. During the encounter, the grizzly knocked him to the ground and proceeded to bite him. Fortunately, the injured hunter was accompanied by a friend who quickly responded by using sidearms to fire at the bear. This action halted the aggressive behavior of the bear, ultimately leading to its death.

Following the attack, the hunters dialed 911 for assistance. Responders swiftly transported the injured man via helicopter to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center, where he received medical attention. According to Idaho Fish and Game, an investigation concluded that the hunters acted in self-defense, having been surprised by the bear at an extremely close distance.

Fortunately, the hunter’s injuries are not considered life-threatening. Matt Pieron, a regional supervisor at Idaho Fish and Game, expressed relief that both individuals emerged from the encounter alive. He emphasized the importance of safety in such wilderness areas and commended the hunters’ actions during the emergency.

The Caribou-Targhee National Forest, where the incident occurred, is part of a vast wilderness that extends through eastern Idaho and reaches into Montana and Wyoming. Grizzly bears, also known as brown bears, were once hunted nearly to extinction across the American West, but their populations have rebounded in certain areas. Current estimates suggest a population of at least 1,900 grizzly bears in the contiguous United States. Much more abundant populations can be found in western Canada and Alaska.

Grizzly bears are federally protected under the Endangered Species Act, making it illegal to hunt them. Idaho law also protects these animals, although the state government has formally petitioned the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to reconsider their classification of grizzly bears in the lower 48 states as either threatened or endangered. Idaho Governor Brad Little highlighted earlier this year that federal protections are not necessary for the success of grizzly populations within the state.

While bear encounters are relatively rare, with an average of 11 to 12 attacks documented annually in North America, they do happen. Coincidentally, on the same day as the Idaho attack, another incident was reported in Canada, where a man near Calgary was hospitalized with severe injuries from a grizzly bear attack. Reports suggest that his injuries are potentially life-threatening.

These recent incidents underscore the importance of awareness and preparation for those who venture into bear habitats, reminding both hunters and outdoor enthusiasts of the need for caution in areas known to be inhabited by wildlife.