[Reprinted from original]

DEC Rescues Bear Cub in Ulster County

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On February 3rd, Environmental Conservation Officer (ECO) Adam Johnson received a call from a concerned resident about a bear cub in a tree close to a local highway in Shandaken. DEC biologists had been attempting to capture a bear cub in that area. When ECO Johnson arrived, he saw the bear cub sitting in front of the trap entrance, contemplating if it wanted to follow the treats inside. Finally, the bear cub entered the trap, triggering the door release.

With the bear successfully trapped, ECO Johnson brought the cub to a wildlife rehabilitator qualified to care for young bears. The small bear was severely dehydrated and malnourished, weighing approximately 10 pounds. Bear cubs this time of year should be close to 50 pounds and hibernating in dens. This bear's survival is even more impressive considering that temperatures in the area were well below freezing for weeks prior to its capture.