Black Bear Attack Leaves Man with Minor Injuries

Michigan is home to 8,000 to 10,000 bears, but 90 percent of the population are found on the Upper Peninsula. (Photo via Michigan Department of Natural Resources)

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A 46-year-old Michigan man injured in a suspected black bear attack while hunting for porcupine in Clare County Thursday, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources said.

The man suffered minor injuries in the attack, which occurred in an area frequented by bears in Greenwood Township, and was treated for minor injuries and released from a local hospital, the DNR said in a statement.

A bear trap was placed in the area, and the DNR Law Enforcement Division is continuing to investigate the incident. Anyone who sees it is urged to call the DNR’s Report All Poaching (RAP) Hotline at (800) 292-7800.

Michigan has an estimated black bear population of 8,000 to 10,000 bears, but 90 percent of the population roam the Upper Peninsula.

Black bears are generally afraid of people and will usually leave if they are aware that people are present, the DNR said. Here are some tips to follow if you’re out in the woods in areas where bears may be present:

• To avoid surprising bears, travel in small groups and make noise.
• If you encounter a bear, stand your ground and then slowly back away. Do not turn away. Do not show fear and don’t run. Do not play dead.
• Make yourself look bigger and talk to the bear in a stern voice.
• If actually attacked, fight back with a backpack, stick, or bare hands.
• Carry pepper spray, which has been shown to be effective in fending off bear attacks.