Yellowstone officials trapped a grizzly bear sow and her cub near Yellowstone Lake, and say they will euthanize the adult if DNA proves she killed a man in the Park last week.
The body of 63 year old Lance Crosby was found near Elephant Back Loop trail near Yellowstone Lake Friday. Park officials say he often hiked in this area, alone, and without bear spray. Although his body had been partially eaten, Yellowstone Superintendent Dan Wenk would not call the attack predatory.
Wenk said, “We have no way of knowing what the circumstances were around his death.”
Dr. Jim Halfpenny literally wrote the book on Yellowstone grizzlies, and teaches classes in the Park.
Halfpenny said when hiking in Yellowstone country, you should be aware of your surroundings, and be ready if you encounter a grizzly. He says bear spray is essential.
He explained it is, “Very effective at making something so it can’t see, can’t breathe and that works well.”
Superintendent Wenk said if they euthanize the bear the cubs will be placed in a zoo.