In Alligator Point, Florida, a massive black bear ventured into a residential neighborhood, causing concern among locals. Wildlife officers swiftly mobilized to address the situation, recognizing the urgency of safely relocating the bear. However, despite their best intentions, the plan to tranquilize and relocate the bear encountered unexpected complications.
Tranquilizing and relocating the bear was deemed the safest and most practical approach to ensure the well-being of both the residents and the animal. Unfortunately, unforeseen challenges arose during the execution of the plan, leading to a turn of events that complicated the situation further.
But the dart made the bear panic and it headed toward the ocean.
As he swam into to Gulf, he became drowsy and started to drown.
Adam Warwick, a biologist with the Wildlife Commission, saw what was going on and knew he had to do something.
He swam to the bear and stopped it from advancing.
“It was a spur-of-the-moment decision. I had a lot of adrenaline pumping when I saw the bear in the water.”
The bear came at Adam to try and stay afloat on top of him. But the bears legs were becoming too weak.
He grabbed the bear by the scruff of the neck keeping its head above water.
Adam stayed calm and didn’t give up.
He then dragged the 400 lb bear about 25 yards to land!
Here they are finally making their way out of the water.
At this point, other team members came to help.
They were able to use a tractor bucket to lift the bear and transport it back to its home in the Osceola National Forest.
The bear was now safe and sound. Call me crazy, but I think that’s a look of appreciation on his face.
This is more like it! He’s happy to be home.
I’m exhausted just reading this! I can’t imagine holding its head above water and dragging it back to land. What a hero!
Toledo, United States.
