On a hike in Oregon, photographer Corey Hancock spotted something that turned out to be a dying baby bear. According to Hancock, the bear was lying on its back, appearing to be dead from all appearances. There was a blue tint to his lips. He had open eyes, but they were hazy and unmoving. Rain poured down, drenching his belly. There might have been a shallow breath.”
My own baby boy back home was on my mind. It looked like the bear was an infant.Would I just stand there and watch it die in the rain? No… I had to take action.” As he ran to his car, he took the bear with him. The whole time, I was afraid I would be attacked by a raging mother bear.
As soon as they reached the car, the baby bear stopped breathing. The animal started breathing again after Hancock performed mouth-to-mouth. The rescuer took him to the vet, where he is being treated for severe dehydration and starvation.
Hancock, however, could have been fined $6,000 for helping the bear, according to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. It could even be worse – a year in jail. It is fortunate for this kind-hearted man that he won’t be punished.
Hancock said the bear was placed on a heating pad and given electrolyte fluids once at the center. It was turned over to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife the next morning, already improved. Hancock’s story was widely shared on social media, where it prompted strong reactions. Some called Hancock a “hero” and a “rock star,” but he also incurred backlash from those who thought he should have stayed out of nature’s path.
According to some, he likely consigned the animal to captivity. What do you think of the story? Let your friends know about this story if you like it.
