Arizona Game and Fish Releases Female Bear, 2 Cubs Back Into Wild

Second bear family released this year; another female with three cubs released in January

Officials with the Arizona Game and Fish Department have released a female bear and her two cubs back into the wild. It is the second bear family released this year by the department, following the release of a female bear and three cubs in January.

The female bear and her two cubs were captured in a residential area of Flagstaff in late May after they were found getting into trash and other attractants. The bears were then taken to the department's Bear Management Unit in Pinetop for evaluation and rehabilitation.

Wildlife Officials: Habituated bears pose a safety risk to humans and bears

Department officials say that habituated bears pose a safety risk to both humans and bears. Bears that become habituated to human food and garbage may become aggressive towards people, and they may also be more likely to be hit by cars or killed by other bears.

To reduce the risk of bear encounters, the department recommends that people store their trash in bear-resistant containers, avoid leaving food or other attractants outside, and never approach or feed a bear.

Bear-resistant containers required in Flagstaff

In Flagstaff, bear-resistant containers for trash are required by city ordinance. Residents can purchase bear-resistant containers at local hardware stores or online.

More information about bear safety is available on the department's website.