Bears can pose a threat. Although most typically steer clear of humans, certain bears, like black bears in populated regions, are increasingly losing their fear of people. To a bear, anything not perceived as a danger could be considered a potential meal. Bears might attack for various reasons: they could be defending their cubs or a carcass they’ve claimed, or they might just be in a bad mood. Notably, black bears are more prone than other types to attack with the intent of prey.

While it’s uncertain if predation was the motive behind a recent attack, a tragic incident in Florida has surfaced where an elderly gentleman and his pet dog have suffered a fatal encounter, marking a first in the state’s history.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) verified on Friday that in Jerome, a man and his dog were fatally mauled by a black bear. This marks the first recorded fatal black bear attack in the state’s history.

Family members reported 89-year-old Robert Markel missing from his home and “signs of recent disturbances” that could have been caused by a bear or bears around the property. 

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) notified FWC staff on Monday of a possible fatal wildlife encounter, and FWC law enforcement and bear management staff immediately responded to secure the area.

While this is sad, and while the FWC isn’t speculating on the reason for the attack, there is evidence that the bear – and be advised, this may be disturbing – fed on Mr. Markel’s body after killing him. Three bears were trapped and killed in the area, and a necropsy and DNA testing were carried out.

Necropsy results revealed that one bear, the 263-pound male, contained partial remains of Markel.

DNA results received on Friday positively identified that the 263-pound male’s DNA was present on Markel, inside his home and on the dog’s body.

Bears are opportunistic feeders, so we can’t be sure that predation was the reason for the attack; the attack may have been for other reasons, with the feeding coming afterwards. Why is this a concern? Knowing if the bear attacked initially with predatory intent, first, allows other people in the area to take precautions – bear spray or a firearm – and second, it informs the FWC on what bear control steps may be taken, and how regulations around hunting bears in Florida may have to be changed.