(UPDATE)-Bear Attack

For immediate release: December 5, 2014
Media contact: Greg Workman, 352-239-2763

FWC captures bear in neighborhood where Lake Mary woman was bitten

Thursday night, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) captured a bear in the Lake Mary neighborhood where a woman was bitten by a bear on her upper arm the night before.

Based on observations of FWC staff, reports by residents and information from the victim, the bear was captured and euthanized. Biological samples have been collected for additional information.
The euthanized bear had three cubs, two of which were captured by the FWC. Unfortunately, one of the two cubs that were captured died. FWC staff who trap wildlife are trained and use the best equipment and procedures available. However, whenever animals are handled there is always a risk. A necropsy will be performed on the cub to try to determine the cause of death.
The cub that remains in captivity is old enough to survive on its own and will be released back into the wild. FWC biologists will attempt to capture the remaining cub and hope to release it at the same time as the other cub.
The FWC remains committed to maintaining the safety of the residents in this neighborhood. Staff will continue to monitor the situation and take appropriate action with any bears that pose a threat to public safety.
Area residents should continue to be aware of their surroundings and always supervise pets and children while outdoors. Go to MyFWC.com/Bear to learn more about how to avoid conflicts with bears. The FWC asks residents to report any threatening bear behavior to the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).