[marktwain]

In the contiguous 48 states, there has been a population of grizzly bears of about 2000. From 2002 to 2023, 211 were recorded as being killed by humans in defense of self and others. This is about 5-10 times as many as previously known.

[marktwain]

The 211 cases are those which were investigated and judged to be defense of self and others. They only include cases where a grizzly bear was killed.

[Bob434]

Sheesh, that’s a lot of attacks for one year. Likely most were during hunting season when hunters skinned their animals, and had to leave some then go back for it later. Also startling mother bears with cubs ranks high on attack list.

[Bob434]

Probably because there are a lot more hikers than there used to be. Armed hikers.

[Omnivore-Dan]

The article keeps referring to “the lower contiguous 48 states”. I don’t think there are any grizzly bears in New Jersey. Seriously, I believe it’s only in Alaska, the western and north western U.S., mainly the left cost states, Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, maybe a few others. The article doesn’t say which states have grizzlies unless I missed something. In any case, I would not venture out camping, fishing or hiking in any of those states without a sizable firearm.

[reasonisfaith]

Sounds like U.S. Fish and Wildlife is saying that grizzlies will continue to be listed as endangered in some places, but not in others.

[Diana in Wisconsin]

“There are severe criminal penalties for not reporting the killing of grizzly bears.”

So, it appears that the Grizzlies have unionized! Which ex-Congress Critter is their Lobbyist? ;)

Secondly - there have to be more ENCOUNTERS with the critters for them to have to be killed in self-defense. More people must be venturing into Grizzly Bear Territory. I don’t think the bears are showing up at peoples’ front doors, ‘just asking for it.’