SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — A young American black bear was safely tranquilized and relocated after it was found in a Park City neighborhood.
The Park City Police Department said the bear was spotted early Thursday morning climbing a tree in the Prospector neighborhood.
Wildlife officers and biologists were quickly notified and arrived on scene along with the Park City Fire District. Using a fire department ladder truck, wildlife officers tranquilized the bear and brought it down from the tree.
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Park City officials said the bear will be relocated to a more suitable habitat away from residential areas and busy roadways.
According to Wild Aware Utah, black bears are the only bear species in the Beehive State and are often found in mountain and forested areas between 7,000 and 10,000 feet in elevation. While they typically prefer the more rugged or forested areas, they have been known to travel distances outside their usual habitats to find food.
Wild Aware Utah said residents – especially those living in the foothills or higher – should properly secure and clean yard items that may attract bears to avoid any unwanted interactions. This includes disposing of trash carefully and securely, keeping barbecue grills clean, and bringing in any outdoor pets overnight.
Other precautions include hiking in a group when in Utah’s mountains and avoiding approaching or feeding the bears.
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