On Monday, Albuquerque Fire Rescue assisted the New Mexico Department of Wildlife in a capture operation at the Tanoan Country Club golf course in the city’s northeast. The effort, intended to remove a bear that had entered a populated area, ended tragically when the mother bear died from injuries sustained during sedation and trapping.

Why the capture was needed

Officials said the bear had been spotted near the course and in nearby neighborhoods, prompting concerns for public safety and the animal’s well‑being. As bears increasingly wander into developed areas, the Department of Wildlife faces growing pressure to intervene quickly and humanely.

Response from wildlife experts

Nirankar Horak, executive director of the Land of Enchantment Wildlife Foundation, described the outcome as “unfortunate.” She explained that wildlife teams always aim to keep mothers and cubs together for as long as nature allows, but the realities of capture work can be unpredictable.

“Sometimes with a drop, there are consequences that come with that,” Horak said, referring to the sedation process.

Plans for the cubs

The Department of Wildlife intends to relocate the two cubs to a suitable habitat away from residential zones. Horak noted that the foundation has not yet been asked to take the cubs, and that whether the young bears need rehabilitation depends on their health and weight. Current guidelines suggest that cubs weighing 35 pounds or more are likely to be released without extensive care.

Preventing future encounters

Wildlife officials are urging New Mexicans to secure trash, remove outdoor food sources, and never approach or feed a bear. Proper waste management and responsible outdoor practices can reduce the likelihood of bears seeking food in human‑occupied areas.

Horak emphasized that the Department of Wildlife is doing its best with limited resources, especially given the surge in calls this year. “We need to work better at making these bears move along as the general public, and not just rely on our game department which is so overwhelmed,” she said.

What’s next?

The New Mexico Department of Wildlife has not released further details about the capture operation or the current condition of the cubs. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets and the department’s official communications.

For anyone who encounters wildlife in the Albuquerque area, the department recommends calling 911 or the local wildlife hotline to report the sighting promptly.

Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.