Bear Encounters in Graham County

Graham County—Last Tuesday was quite an eventful day for the Arizona Game & Fish division, with two black bears spotted to the east and south of Safford.

Authorities received a call around 6:24 PM about a bear causing a commotion on East Sanchez Road. Deputies from the Graham County Sheriff’s Office arrived to assist Game & Fish and found one black bear climbing a tree south of the road. They temporarily closed the area while officers attempted to sedate the bear, but their first attempt missed, prompting the bear to scamper east into a nearby field.

Authorities quickly pursued the bear, and Game & Fish officials eventually managed to calm it down with tranquilizer darts. Both bears were tagged and relocated to a wilderness area for release. The recent sightings marked a continued pattern in bear interactions in the area, with the sheriff’s office indicating there weren’t any more bears to the south, passing the matter completely to Game & Fish.

The bear on Sanchez Road was probably looking for water or was possibly pushed out by an older bear defending its territory.

Game & Fish has a strict policy concerning bear sightings, particularly when they become disruptive, yet there may be a couple of relocation options available.

In May, for instance, a black bear was spotted near a cabin in Alpine. It was later relocated.

How to Avoid Conflicts with Bears

Here are some recommendations for reducing bear attraction to your area:

• Secure your garbage: Bring trash cans inside at night or invest in bear-resistant containers.
• Manage compost piles: Open compost heaps can invite bears, especially those with kitchen scraps—bears are adept at digging through them.
• Recycle thoughtfully: Use enclosed bins for recyclables outdoors to deter bears.
• Keep your BBQ grill clean: Make sure it’s clean and stored away when not in use. Regular cleaning with ammonia or bleach can help.
• Rethink bird feeders: In summer, abandon feeders if natural food sources are plentiful. If you choose to use one, keep it away from your home.

If You Encounter a Black Bear

Witnessing a black bear doesn’t usually spell disaster. These creatures might just be passing through or investigating intriguing scents or sounds. Typically, if they sense human presence, they’ll move on quickly.

Stay composed—remember, bears are more frightened of you than you are of them. Attacks are extremely rare, and most bears will retreat if you:

• Stand your ground; don’t run or approach the bear.
• Raise your arms or make yourself appear larger.
• Make loud noises—yelling or banging pots and pans can help.
• If the bear approaches, use bear spray if you have it.
• In very rare situations where a bear does attack, it’s crucial to fight back (though hopefully, it won’t come to that).
• After the encounter, eliminate any attractants—such as food, grills, and pet supplies.

*Source: American Humanitarian Society