Two Anchorage Bear Attacks Spur Safety Warnings

Two separate bear attacks took place within a week in Anchorage, Alaska, prompting officials to warn hikers to avoid salmon streams where bears gather to feed before hibernation. The most recent incident involved a man who was mauled near the South Fork of Eagle River while walking his dog off-leash; he used bear spray and sustained non-life-threatening arm and hand injuries. A few days earlier, a woman was attacked on the Dome Trail and survived with injuries. Both maulings are believed to be defensive actions by brown bear sows protecting cubs or feeding. Anchorage, which has an estimated 350 black bears and 65 brown bears, continues to face challenges with urban-wildlife encounters. Authorities advise hikers to avoid salmon-bearing streams and keep dogs leashed, especially during peak bear feeding times.