LANDER, Wyo. — A man was attacked by a grizzly bear in Shoshone National Forest on Saturday while conducting survey work, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department has announced.
The surprise encounter took place in the Sheridan Creek drainage the morning of Aug. 5, according to Game and Fish. The man happened upon the grizzly at close range and was unable to reach his bear spray before the bear made contact. Once contact was made, the man said he dropped to the ground, covered his head and neck and did not fight back.
After the encounter, the man was able to call 911 and was flown to a hospital after first responders administered first aid.
“First and foremost, we want to wish the individual a quick and successful recovery,” Lander Regional Wildlife Supervisor Jason Hunter said in a statement. “His split-second reaction to this sudden, defensive encounter with a bear was the best possible response to this unfortunate situation.”
According to Game and Fish, a drone survey of the surrounding area yielded no signs of the bear after the attack. Because the victim’s wounds and description of the attack suggest an “aggressive defensive” surprise encounter at close range, “there are currently no further management actions planned,” Game and Fish said.
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