Two days ago I blogged about the “non” bear attack in Colorado. I quoted one of the comments made by the CDoW representatives about the incident. I then made a judgement call against this organization in assuming they were taking “sides” with the bear and hence, would not call this a bear attack. The gentleman I quoted actually wrote me back and cleared a few things up. It would appear I was wrong. I am sorry.
Thanks for all the work you do Mr. Hampton.
Lesson learned.
His response to my initial blog entry (via blog comment and email) was:
The incident was not an attack, but was an aggressive action… and there is a difference. The bear was likely attracted to the campsite by a grill (covered in fat from the cookout the night before). The grill was left next to the tent. So, was the bear at fault or was the camper? Well, that doesn’t matter. The bottom line is the bear is being sought and will be put down in accordance with Colorado Division of Wildlife policy.
The Colorado Division of Wildlife does not take a “buddy-buddy” approach to the management of black bears. Policy dictates that any wild animal that acts aggressively towards people will be killed if we can find it. Not much of a buddy-buddy policy.
The CDOW is also cooperating in the first urban black bear study. This study is already providing valuable information about bear and human behavior.
I just wanted to provide you with some facts that might aid in your quick and distant analysis of my ability as a representative of the Colorado Division of Wildlife. We appreciate your continued efforts to educate your readers about interactions in black bear country.
Hunt Proud… Fish Colorado
My response was:
Thanks for the comment! I was quick to associate your organization and comment with other groups I am very skeptical about. The kind that say the province’s bear population is at risk by hunters who orphan bear cubs and then create a media campaign around this untruth and get our spring bear hunt cancelled. I should let the bitterness go…
Sorry. I was apparently wrong about you and your organization.
I went to your website. Impressive. It looks like it would be worth the drive to Colorado and share in some of your hunting opportunities.
I will let our readers know. Thanks for taking the time to email me and comment.
Well there you have it. I hope my apology is accepted.
Bill Anderson
Muskoka Outdoors
