Bear attacks hiker in Bath County state park

BATH COUNTY — A woman was attacked by a black bear while hiking in Douthat State Park in Millboro in Bath County, prompting the park to close all hiking trails this week.

Around 1 p.m. Sunday a woman was hiking with two dogs on the Tuscarora Overlook when she was attacked from behind by a bear and wounded in both legs, said Jim Meisner, spokesperson for Virginia Sate Parks. She was able to walk out on her own.

Park staff were notified and they contacted the rescue squad. The Bath County Sheriff's Office was also notified, as well as state police. The woman is expected to make a full recovery.

All trails were closed and will remain closed through Friday, said Meisner. This is the second time a person has been attacked by a bear unprovoked in Douthat State Park. The last time was in August 2015. However, there is no indication that it is the same bear, Meisner said. Usually bear attacks are associated with hunting.

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"You injure a bear it tends to get angry," Meisner said.

There are no orders to kill the bear at this time. Bear traps have been placed on trails throughout the park. If a bear similar to the description of the one involved in the attack is caught, a blood sample will be taken so that scientists from Game and Inland Fisheries can try to match it. If the correct bear is caught, a tracking collar will be put on the bear.

Any bears that are too big or too small will be released, Meisner said.

It is highly recommended that people hiking or recreating in bear country learn about what to do in a bear encounter, according to a press release.

Hiking in groups of two or more is recommended, and always keep dogs leashed. If you see a bear and it has not seen you, calmly leave the area. As you move away, make noise to let the bear discover your presence. Give the bear plenty of room to escape. Bears rarely attack people unless they feel cornered or provoked.

Most importantly, do not run or make any sudden movements. Running could prompt the bear to give chase, and you cannot outrun a bear. If on a trail, step off the trail and slowly leave the area. Carrying bear spray while hiking in the back country is also recommended.

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