Bear euthanized in WI after becoming friendly from being fed by humans

A bear was recently euthanized by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources in Suring, WI, after losing its fear of humans. Sources say the owner of a local exotic animal rescue was reportedly feeding the bear.

Feeding bears for non-hunting purposes is illegal, according to the DNR. Wild animals that are fed by humans lose their fear of them, which causes the animals to be dangerous. They will begin to approach humans which is hazardous for both humans and animals.

Because the bear in Suring was being fed, the DNR euthanized it for public safety.

According to the Get Bear Smart Society, “bears that are fed and come into frequent contact with people are often destroyed, not for what they have done, but for what people are afraid they might do.”