A juvenile black bear attacked two residents in Salmon, Idaho, on the afternoon of Oct. 2, according to a news release from Idaho Fish and Game. I read the agency’s detailed account, which states the bear was euthanized the same day and tested negative for rabies.
The attack occurred on private property on the south edge of Salmon. Idaho Fish and Game reports that a male bear weighing approximately 90 pounds approached and struck a woman, then later attacked a man, both in separate incidents on the same residential property. The injuries were non-life-threatening cuts and bruises, and neither victim required hospitalization. Officers located the bear in a tree nearby and killed it.
Wildlife managers noted that juvenile black bears are on their own for the first time in fall, a time when natural food sources are declining and bears push into human areas. This incident follows the typical pattern of seasonal foraging pressure in Idaho’s mountain valleys. Idaho Fish and Game reminds residents that bear activity increases through autumn as animals build fat reserves for winter.
For a homeowner in Idaho, this story reinforces that black bears can show up in town, not just in remote campsites. If you see a bear in your yard in Salmon or any Idaho community, the agency advises contacting them directly at 208-232-4703. Never approach a juvenile bear, which may behave with less caution than adults, and secure any attractants such as bird feeders, garbage, or pet food that could bring bears closer to your door.
The full announcement came from Idaho Fish and Game.
The notice is published by Idaho Fish and Game news at idfg.idaho.gov.
