CPW responds to bear attack in Eagle County

Rachael Gonzales
Northwest Region Public Information Officer
970-773-8587 / [email protected]
  CPW responds to bear attack in Eagle County

August 18, 2026

GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colo. — Colorado Parks and Wildlife officers responded Monday to a report of a bear attack at an apartment complex near Eagle-Vail.

Late Monday afternoon, wildlife officials learned an adult male was leaving a building laundry room when he encountered a female black bear. The bear swiped at the man, scratching his arm. The victim tripped and injured his foot while trying to escape.

The victim was transported to a local medical facility by a family member where he was treated for injuries to his arm and foot. The victim has been released and is recovering at home. The family is requesting privacy.

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 the sow and cubs to stay away. CPW has placed a bear trap in the neighborhood.

The incident serves as a reminder that bears are active, and severe drought conditions have driven increased wildlife activity in populated areas. CPW has received multiple recent reports of a sow and cubs foraging in neighborhood dumpsters.

Colorado has recorded a high number of bear reports this year. 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. During this time, they focus intensely on consuming up to 20,000 calories a day to prepare for winter hibernation. This natural behavior makes bears more active across the landscape, increasing the importance of community action to prevent future conflicts.

Preventing human-bear conflicts requires a community-wide effort. CPW recommends residents take the following steps to prevent conflicts and keep bears wild:

• Never feed or approach bears. Intentionally feeding wildlife or letting them find accessible food is illegal. It teaches them to approach homes and lose their natural fear of humans.

• Safely store trash, animal feed and other attractants. Lock up trash receptacles and food scraps to eliminate the powerful odors that attract wildlife to residential properties.

• Never leave pet food outdoors. Feed domestic pets indoors or thoroughly clean up bowls immediately after any outdoor feeding.

• Clean and store outdoor grills. Burn off grease and food particles after every use, and store grills inside a secure garage or shed.

• Secure windows and doors. Keep windows and doors locked, especially when leaving the property.

• Know what to do if you encounter a black bear. If you see a bear before it notices you, don't approach. Stand still, and quietly move away. If a bear sees you, back away slowly. Never run; running may trigger a chase response. If a bear approaches, hold your ground, wave your arms and yell "Hey Bear" until it leaves. If a black bear makes contact with you, do NOT play dead; fight back aggressively.

For more information on bears in Colorado, visit cpw.state.co.us/living-bears. 

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