KEY POINTS

  • "Bruno" the black bear was tranquilized by conservation agents in Missouri
  • Bear gained social media attention after traveling around 400 miles looking for a mate
  • MDC personnel relocated Bruno to safe location outside the urban area

The black bear who gained a national following after traveling around 400 miles in search of a mate, was tranquilized in Missouri.

“Bruno” the bear captured the hearts of netizens for his summer escapade last month. In fact, a Facebook group, “Keeping Bruno Safe,” was created to show the animal some support.

According to USA Today, Bruno started his journey on June 10 when he traveled from Wisconsin into Illinois before making his way to Iowa. He then returned to Illinois in southern Rock Island County on June 18 where the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the Pike County (Illinois) Sheriff's Department helped the animal cross interstate highways.

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Back bear Pixabay

Bruno was seen by a witness in Lincoln County last week before settling in a “tough spot” in St. Charles County over the weekend, said MSN.

Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) agents found Bruno early Sunday (July 5) within the city limits of Wentzville where he “cornered himself” north of Interstate 70 and near Interstate 40/61.

“The bear found himself in a tough spot, stuck by several major roadways,” said MDC State Furbearer Biologist Laura Conlee in a statement. She added that because of the location which is near the roadways and that it was a “busy travel day,” MDC staff determined that Bruno had “little chance” of leaving the area safely.

“In the interest of public safety and the bear's safety, MDC staff made the decision to immobilize the bear and transport it to a nearby area for suitable bear habitat outside urban corridor,” said Conlee.

State Wildlife Veterinarian Dr. Sherri Russel monitored the sedated bear's condition. The bear was released unharmed outside the urban area.

MDC's statement pointed out that they do not generally immobilize dispersing bears. This was a last resort.

“Given the bear's location and safety considerations, staff on scene determined this was necessary and the situation allowed for it to be done,” added the statement.

Conlee thanked the efforts St. Charles County and Wentzville Police Departments for assisting them and managing the crowd of more than 400 people who wanted to take a glimpse of Bruno.

“Give the bear's location and crowd, this assistance was critical to the success of this situation,” Conlee said.

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