Bear spray saves the day after attack in Caribou-Targhee NF

ISLAND PARK, Ida. — On the morning of Sept. 18, two hunters were encountered by a bear while archery hunting in Caribou-Targhee National Forest south of Two Top Mountain in Island Park. The hunters were pursuing elk.

Both hunters were carrying bear spray and were able to deploy it during the attack. The victim began to deploy his bear spray just before being knocked to the ground by the bear. His hunting companion also deployed his own canister, shortening the attack and causing the bear to flee the area.

The two hunters encountered the bear at a close distance while in thick brush. They described the bear as a grizzly but this can not be confirmed by Fish and Game.

Both hunters were able to walk out of the backcountry on their own accord and then called for help. The victim was transported by ambulance to Madison Memorial Hospital in Rexburg to receive treatment.

Signs have been placed on nearby roads warning of bear activity in the area. Forest users are urged to carry bear spray and know how to use it when hiking in bear country.