A woman escaped a shocking bear attack with only minor injuries in Salmon Arm, B.C., on Tuesday morning.
The BC Conservation Officer Service says the woman was jogging near 50 Avenue Southwest when she encountered a black bear, which knocked her down, bit her and “shook her” before leaving the area.
B.C. conservation officers, paramedics and police responded to the bear attack, and the woman was taken to hospital for treatment of minor injuries.
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In an update Wednesday, the BCCOS said the woman had been released from hospital, and described the encounter as a “surprise defensive attack.”
Investigators say that after speaking with the victim, canvassing the area and reviewing physical evidence, it seems the bear was also startled by the encounter and “reacted defensively” before it left.
“Due to the nature of the attack and location, conservation officers believe the risk to public safety is low and are not taking any action to capture or kill the bear,” said the BCCOS.
Conservation officers say signs remain placed in the area warning pedestrians to watch for bears, and the BCCOS encourages people to brush up on wildlife encounter tips.
Some basic tips include making noise on trails, travelling in groups, and carrying bear spray.
More information can be found on the WildSafeBC website.
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Adam Chan
