Young bear euthanized after lethargic behavior, tests negative for rabies
KVAL • • health
Key Points:
- A young bear was spotted lingering on a public road in Eugene's South Hill area on July 16, causing concern among residents who tried to guide it back into the woods by placing fruit away from the road.
- The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) and Oregon State Police responded after multiple calls; the bear exhibited aggressive behavior and signs of illness, including disheveled hair, pacing, and walking with its head down.
- The bear was transported to a wildlife health lab but showed severe distress and unresponsiveness, leading ODFW to humanely euthanize it as rehabilitation was not viable.
- Testing for rabies was conducted due to the bear's unusual behavior and contact with humans, with results returning negative; further analysis is ongoing to determine the cause of its condition.
- ODFW urges residents to stay "bear-wise" by securing trash, cleaning grills, and removing attractants to safely coexist with wildlife in urban-wildland areas.
