Colorado Parks and Wildlife responds to bear attack in Steamboat Springs
September 4, 2026
STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, Colo. — On September 3, 2026, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) officers responded to a report of a bear attack in Steamboat Springs.
The victim, an adult, was napping in a backyard patio chair during the afternoon when they noticed a bear approaching. Staying calm, the individual remained motionless so as not to startle the animal, even as the bear huffed and popped its jaw. Before a neighbor could intervene with bear spray, the bear reached out and scraped the victim's knee. The neighbor then deployed bear spray to prevent further re-engagement.
The victim sustained minor injuries and did not seek professional medical treatment. Out of respect for their privacy, no further personal details are being released.
Bears are currently extremely active across the state as they enter hyperphagia—a period of intense feeding prior to hibernation. Severe drought conditions have limited natural food sources, driving bears to take greater risks and move closer to populated areas in search of calories.
Preventing human-bear conflicts requires a community-wide effort. CPW recommends taking the following BearWise steps to prevent conflicts and keep bears wild:
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Never feed or approach bears. Intentionally feeding wildlife is illegal. It teaches them to approach homes and lose their natural fear of humans.
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Safely store trash, animal feed and other attractants. Lock up trash receptacles and food scraps to eliminate the powerful odors that attract wildlife to residential properties.
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Never leave pet food outdoors. Feed domestic pets indoors or thoroughly clean up bowls immediately after any outdoor feeding.
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Clean and store outdoor grills. Burn off grease and food particles after every use, and store grills inside a secure garage or shed.
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Secure windows and doors. Keep windows and doors locked, especially when leaving the property. As well as, keeping car windows rolled up and doors locked, even if you are just stepping out for a few short minutes.
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Know what to do if you encounter a black bear. If you see a bear before it notices you, don't approach. Stand still, and quietly move away. If a bear sees you, back away slowly. Never run; running may trigger a chase response. If a bear approaches, hold your ground, wave your arms and yell "Hey Bear" until it leaves. If a black bear makes contact with you, do NOT play dead; fight back aggressively.
For more information on bears in Colorado, visit cpw.state.co.us/living-bears.
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