A hunter was attacked and bitten by a grizzly bear during a “surprise encounter” while hunting elk in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest on Sunday, Fox News reports, citing Idaho Fish and Game.
The incident occurred near Island Park, a popular hunting and recreation area located near Yellowstone National Park and the Idaho-Wyoming border.
The hunter and his hunting partner were in the forest when they encountered the grizzly bear at close range. The bear attacked, knocking the hunter to the ground and biting him. Both hunters were able to use their sidearms to shoot the bear, deterring the attack and ultimately killing the animal.
The injured hunter was transported by helicopter to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center, where he is being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
Idaho Fish and Game officials determined that the hunters acted in self-defense during the encounter.
“I am extremely grateful that both of these individuals survived this encounter,” said Fish and Game Regional Supervisor Matt Pieron. “I have had the opportunity to speak with the injured hunter and his family and they are truly wonderful people. I wish him a speedy recovery from his injuries and the trauma these two hunters experienced.”
