Oregon Deputies Use Cars To Corral Young Black Bear And Herd It Toward River

When a young bear was spotted prowling an Oregon town for an “easy snack,” deputies used their vehicles to corral the animal and herd it toward a river, authorities said.

The Wilsonville Police Department said deputies responded on June 29 to multiple calls about young black bear sightings around town.

“While Wilsonville is home to restaurant called Black Bear Diner, actual black bears are not commonly seen in the city,” police said. “This bear was likely checking the area for an easy snack, including unsecured trash or other food sources.”

At around 10:45 p.m., deputies spotted the bear and used their vehicles to corral the animal. Dashboard camera video shared by the police department shows officers slowly following the bear, using a spotlight to keep tabs on its movements.

The bear ran along a street lined with business and poked its nose in various doorways before being encouraged along by the deputies on its tail. The street transitioned into a more residential area, and the bear curiously bobbed in and out of yards and driveways as it moved along.

The bear eventually ran into a wooded area near a river.

“Remember, wildlife sightings can happen anywhere in Oregon,” police said. “Giving animals space helps keep both our community and local wildlife safe.”