MAPLETON, Utah (KUTV) \u2014 A mama bear and her two cubs were spotted high in a tree in Mapleton, drawing the attention of nearby residents.<\/p>\n
A nearby resident said he spotted a mother bear and two cubs about 15 to 20 feet up in a maple tree while checking his sprinklers. <\/p>\n
He contacted the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. He said officers tranquilized the mother bear, captured the cubs and relocated all three bears. <\/p>\n
The resident said he has lived in the area for 12 1\/2 years and had never seen bears at such a low elevation.<\/p>\n
MORE | Black Bears<\/p>\n
Black bears are the only bear species in Utah and roam across much of the state.<\/p>\n
According to the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, ongoing drought conditions have reduced the availability of plants and other vegetation, which make up about 90% of a black bear’s diet.<\/p>\n
Biologists said bears may seek alternative food sources if the extreme drought persists, increasing the likelihood of conflicts with people.<\/p>\n
Wildlife officials said that could lead to more bears getting into garbage, scavenging for food in campgrounds and venturing into populated areas in search of food.<\/p>\n
A bear spotted within Ephraim city limits last Tuesday was safely tranquilized and relocated after wildlife officials responded to the area.<\/p>\n
Residents who encounter wildlife in town are encouraged to keep their distance and report the sighting to the appropriate authorities.<\/p>\n
The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources shared safety tips for anyone who encounters a black bear in Utah:<\/p>\n
Stand your ground: Never back up, lie down or play dead. Stay calm and give the bear a chance to leave. Prepare to use your bear spray or another deterrent.Don’t run away or climb a tree. Black bears are excellent climbers and can run up to 35 mph \u2014 you cannot outclimb or outrun them.Know bear behavior. If a bear stands up, grunts, moans or makes other sounds, it’s not being aggressive. These are the ways a bear gets a better look or smell and expresses its interest.If a black bear attacks, always fight back. And never give up! People have successfully defended themselves with almost anything: rocks, sticks, backpacks, water bottles and even their hands and feet.<\/p>\n
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