More than 10 forestry officials and officials from Wildlife Conservation Division have reached the Sherzhong Gewog in Gelegphu to trap the bear that has been causing terror for nine days. Their first attempt was futile but they are positive they will be able to capture the bear alive soon.
Yesterday night, a team of forestry officials, local leaders and BBS crew waited for the bear to appear in the heavy rainfall. Sometime after 10, it attacked one of the chicken coops.
But by the time the forestry officials reached the site, it was too late. It had already fled after killing two chickens and injuring one.
The bear was sighted again towards 11 pm. But the bear had run away once again leaving behind a half eaten jack fruit, before the officials could do anything.
The Forest Ranger of Gelegphu, Sangay Dorji, said they have already set up a trap and hopefully they might be able to trap the bear within a few days.
The Wildlife Conversation Division official, Chencho Tshering, said the situation has become severe but they will set as many traps as possible to capture the bear alive since they are responsible for rescuing it.
“Today, we will set different types of traps with the help of local people. We will set one in the maize field with dead chicken hanging inside. The door of this trap will close when pressure is exerted.”
He added they are not tranquilizing the bear because it will be difficult to locate it at night and if not found within stipulated time period and brought back to consciousness the bear will die.
