Black Bear Charges Hiker And Her Dogs In Ferry County

A women sustained non-life-threatening injuries after she and her dogs were charged by a black bear while they were hiking in Northeast Washington’s Ferry County.

WDFW reports it received word of the incident on Sunday, September 1, and that it took place on private land near Mink Creek Road, which is located above Lake Roosevelt, just north of the northeast corner of the Colville Reservation.

 “The woman sustained non-life-threatening injuries and is currently receiving medical care at a Spokane hospital,” the agency said in a statement post it overnight.

It’s the second human-bear incident in three weeks period in mid-August, an adult boar swiped a girl’s arm in the town of Roslyn.

WDFW said crews had not located the bear at the time it posted the statement on Sunday.

State wildlife officials offered advice for minimizing injury risk during a bear encounter:

“In general black bears avoid people, but they’re naturally curious animals. If a bear walks toward you, identify yourself as a human by standing up, waving your hands above your head, and talking in a low voice. Back away, avoiding direct eye contact. Don’t run from a bear. WDFW recommends making noise and leashing pets while hiking. Be aware of your surroundings as to not accidentally startle a bear. While recreating, WDFW recommends carrying bear spray that is readily accessible and knowing how to use it. More information on how to use bear spray is available on WDFW’s blog.”