Fact Check: "Wildlife experts trapped the bear using a cylindrical trap to remove the lid."
What We Know
In June 2025, Michigan wildlife experts successfully trapped a black bear that had been suffering with a large plastic lid stuck around its neck for two years. The bear was first spotted as a cub in 2023 and was monitored by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) after being identified on trail cameras. The DNR set a cylindrical trap to safely lure the bear inside, allowing them to anesthetize it and remove the lid on June 3, 2025. According to state bear specialist Cody Norton, the bear was in surprisingly good condition despite the scarring and hair loss around its neck caused by the lid (NYP, Fox10Phoenix, The Guardian).
Analysis
The claim that wildlife experts used a cylindrical trap to capture the bear is supported by multiple credible sources. The DNR confirmed that they employed a cylindrical trap to safely capture the bear, which was necessary due to the bear's unusual condition and the potential risks involved in the rescue operation. The use of such traps is a common practice among wildlife experts for safely capturing animals without causing them harm (Fox10Phoenix, The Guardian).
The sources reporting on this incident, including the New York Post, Fox 10 Phoenix, and The Guardian, are reputable news outlets that have covered the story in detail. They provide consistent information regarding the trapping method and the bear's condition, which adds to the reliability of the claim. Furthermore, the DNR's involvement lends additional credibility, as they are the authoritative body responsible for wildlife management in Michigan (NYP, Fox10Phoenix, The Guardian).
However, it is important to note that while the sources are reliable, they may contain slight variations in details, such as the timeline of events or specific quotes from experts. This is common in reporting and does not detract from the overall accuracy of the claim.
Conclusion
The claim that wildlife experts trapped the bear using a cylindrical trap to remove the lid is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms that the DNR utilized a cylindrical trap to safely capture the bear, allowing for the removal of the lid that had been stuck around its neck for two years.
