LINCOLN, N.M. (AP) – Authorities are searching for an adult black bear involved in the attack of a 55-year-old hunter in New Mexico’s Lincoln National Forest.
State Department of Game and Fish officials say the man suffered deep flesh wounds from scratches on his chest and a bite to his leg Monday.
He was treated and released from Lincoln County Medical Center in Ruidoso.
Conservation officers are searching for the bear so it can be tested for rabies.
The attack occurred in the forest near Baca Campground.
The man had been hunting for antler sheds in thick brush when he apparently surprised the bear, which attacked the hunter before fleeing into the woods.
The injured man notified his hunting companion by two-way radio. The two hiked to their vehicle and drove to the hospital.
