Colorado Parks and Wildlife Euthanizes Bear in Durango
Colorado Parks and Wildlife officers euthanized an 18-year-old male black bear in Durango after it was found bloated, moaning, and unable to move.
Denver, CO, September 9, 2026 — Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) officers made the difficult decision to euthanize an 18-year-old male black bear in Durango. The decision followed the discovery of the animal in a severely compromised state, exhibiting signs of distress.
CPW officials found the bear exhibiting advanced symptoms, described as being bloated, moaning, and unable to move. The bear’s condition necessitated immediate intervention to prevent further suffering.
The specific date and precise location within Durango where the bear was discovered were not immediately available. Additionally, the underlying cause of the bear’s severe condition, which led to its incapacitation and subsequent euthanasia, has not been publicly disclosed by CPW. There was also no information provided regarding any prior interactions or documented history of this specific bear with wildlife officials or the public.
Euthanasia is typically considered by wildlife authorities when an animal is suffering from severe injury, illness, or poses a significant public safety risk and cannot be rehabilitated or managed through other means. In this instance, the physical state of the animal prompted CPW officers to act.
The agency has not released further details regarding the necropsy of the bear or any findings that might explain its condition. CPW frequently advises the public to report any sightings of distressed or unusually behaving wildlife to their local offices to ensure appropriate wildlife management and animal welfare.
Story summarized from the original created by Andrew Kiser on kdvr.com, see more information here.
