Grizzly bear trapping to begin

Biologists are trying to trap grizzly bears for research in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest south of Yellowstone National Park.

Trapping began July 18 and will run until Aug. 25. Trapping operations can include a variety of activities, but major access points to all areas where work is being done will be marked with bright orange warning signs. It is critical that all members of the public heed these signs.

Biologists, who make up Idaho's contribution to the larger Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team efforts, will begin to work in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest within Idaho south of Yellowstone National Park down to Badger Creek.

Monitoring grizzly bear distribution and other activities are vital to ongoing recovery of grizzlies in the Yellowstone Ecosystem. To attract bears, biologists use natural foods, such as fresh road-killed deer and elk.

Potential trapping sites are baited with these foods, and if indications are that grizzly bears are in the area, snares or culvert traps will be used to capture the bears.

Once trapped, the bears are sedated and studied in accordance with strict protocols developed by the Grizzly Bear Study Team.

Whenever bear trapping activities are being conducted for scientific purposes or to resolve bear problems, the vicinity will be posted with bright orange warning signs to inform the public.

For more information regarding grizzly bear trapping efforts or Idaho's role in grizzly bear management, call (208) 525-7290.