A bear in Telluride, Colorado, had to be euthanized after suffering for months due to plastic waste blocking its digestive system. Concerned residents in the community noticed the sick-looking bear and contacted authorities. The bear had foam around its mouth and puffy eyes, indicating some kind of infection. It would only walk short distances before needing to rest.
Recognizing the bear’s dangerous condition, authorities made the difficult decision to euthanize it. Rachel Sralla, the area manager for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, expressed their regret at having to make this call, stating that leaving the bear to suffer was not an option. A necropsy revealed a significant amount of plastic waste and other human trash obstructing the bear’s digestive system. Paper towels, wipes, plastic bags, and indigestible food were found, preventing the trash from moving through to the lower intestines.
The presence of plastic waste in the bear’s digestive system highlights the serious health problems it can cause. Plastic materials block vital organs, preventing them from functioning properly. John Livingston, a spokesperson from Colorado Parks and Wildlife, described the bear’s condition as sad and horrific, as it was unable to break down the food it consumed.
Bears, known for their strong sense of smell and memory, can detect dangerous materials like plastic from far distances. However, they are prone to consuming materials they cannot digest, as seen in this tragic incident in Telluride. Plastic waste not only poses a threat to bears but also affects wildlife globally. According to Earth.org, up to 100,000 marine animals die each year due to ingesting or becoming entangled in plastic. Other scavenging mammals and birds are also at risk of consuming plastic when they come into contact with human leftovers.
To prevent similar tragedies, individuals can take steps to limit their plastic consumption. Using reusable water bottles, opting for biodegradable packaging in food items, and using reusable containers for leftovers are simple ways to reduce plastic waste in daily routines. Additionally, it is crucial to dispose of waste properly to keep it out of the reach of animals in communities where they may scavenge for food.
By taking these actions, individuals can contribute to the protection of wildlife and the environment.
