Fact Check: "Experts puzzled how the lid got stuck on the bear's neck!"
What We Know
Recently, wildlife biologists in Michigan successfully removed a plastic lid that had been stuck around the neck of a young black bear for two years. The bear, which weighed approximately 110 pounds, was first spotted in 2023 through trail camera images. The lid was similar to those used for 55-gallon drums, commonly employed by hunters for baiting bears. According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the lid had a hole that was 5 inches in diameter, which is problematic as it does not comply with regulations that require bait containers to have openings of either 1 inch or less or 22 inches or greater to prevent wildlife from becoming trapped (DNR, AP News).
The exact circumstances of how the bear became ensnared in the lid remain unclear. Cody Norton, a DNR specialist, emphasized that container openings of certain sizes can lead to wildlife injuries or death, but he did not provide a definitive explanation for this specific case (DNR, NY Times).
Analysis
The claim that "experts are puzzled how the lid got stuck on the bear's neck" is supported by the fact that the DNR has not determined the exact circumstances surrounding the incident. While the DNR has acknowledged the potential risks associated with improperly sized openings in bait containers, they have not speculated on how this particular bear managed to get its head stuck. This lack of clarity suggests that while the experts are aware of the general risks, they do not have specific insights into this case (DNR, AP News).
The sources cited are credible, particularly the official reports from the Michigan DNR, which provide firsthand information about the incident. The New York Times and AP News also offer reliable coverage, presenting the facts without sensationalism. However, the phrasing of the claim implies a level of confusion or mystery that may not fully represent the DNR's position, as they have indicated that such incidents can occur but have not expressed bewilderment over this specific case (NY Times, AP News).
Conclusion
The verdict for the claim is Partially True. While it is accurate that experts have not determined how the lid became stuck on the bear's neck, the wording of the claim may overstate the level of confusion or puzzlement among experts. The DNR has provided context about the risks associated with bear baiting and container openings, indicating a general understanding of the issue but lacking specifics on this individual case.
Sources
- DNR biologists remove lid stuck on bear's neck for 2 years
- What is humidity and why does it make us feel so uncomfortable?
- Bear Whose Head Was Stuck for Two Years Is Freed
- A Michigan bear roamed the woods for two years with an awful lid on his neck
- Humidity map - yourweather.co.uk | Meteored
- Wildlife experts remove plastic lid that was stuck on bear's neck for two years
- What is normal humidity in a house and how is it achieved?
- Wildlife experts remove plastic lid stuck on a Michigan bear's neck for two years
