A bear trapped in a tree wasn’t trapped at all. He was looking for a handout and boy, did rescuers deliver.
A young black bear shimmied up a tree in North Carolina, which happened to be smack-dab next to the hospital, so first responders were summoned to remove the threat. The incident happened at the UNC Rex Hospital in Raleigh, according to ABC News’ affiliate WTVD.
Thankfully, the bear didn’t require drastic measures like tranquilizer darts to make him leave the tree. All authorities needed to do was wave around some jelly doughnuts and sardines, and the hungry animal came barreling down the tree.
Wildlife Management Division Chief Brad Howard said the bear had gone through a “traumatic experience” as he was left in a tree in broad daylight with tons of people around. Prior to deploying the doughnuts and sardines, Howard said, “His thinking right now is: ‘How can I get out of here safely?'”
After scoring a tummy full of free food, though, the cub scampered away. Authorities believe he’s learned his lesson.
Howard estimates the bear was likely a male between 12 to 18 months of age — right around the time mama bears kick their cubs to the curb so they can grow up and strike out on their own.