Bear attacks man at Colorado apartment complex, officials say
A man was attacked by a female black bear while leaving a laundry room at an apartment complex in Eagle-Vail, Colorado, wildlife officials said.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife officers responded Monday to reports of a bear attack in Eagle-Vail, approximately 100 miles west of Denver. Officials said the man encountered the female black bear as he was leaving the laundry room.
The bear scratched his arm, and the victim tripped and injured his foot while trying to escape, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
The victim was taken to a medical facility by a family member, where he was treated for injuries to his arm and foot, wildlife officials said. He was later released and is recovering at home.
"The incident serves as a reminder that bears are active, and severe drought conditions have driven increased wildlife activity in populated areas," officials said. "CPW has received multiple recent reports of a sow and cubs foraging in neighborhood dumpsters."
CPW officers remained in the area overnight to capture the sow and her cubs. However, wildlife officials believe the presence of a larger male bear in the area prompted them to stay away.
CPW placed a bear trap in the neighborhood following the attack.
"Colorado has recorded a high number of bear reports this year," CPW said in its statement. "Severe drought conditions have limited natural food sources, forcing bears to make broader movements in search of food."
As late summer turns to fall, bears enter a phase known as hyperphagia, when they focus intensely on consuming up to 20,000 calories a day to prepare for winter hibernation, officials said.
"This natural behavior makes bears more active across the landscape, increasing the importance of community action to prevent future conflicts," CPW said.
CPW recommends that residents never feed or approach bears, securely store trash, animal feed and other attractants, keep pet food indoors, clean and store outdoor grills after use, and keep windows and doors locked to help prevent human-bear conflicts.
-ABC News' Jeff Cook contributed to this report.
