For many, hiking is a chance to enjoy nature, whether in the company of friends or alone. Even though you might encounter a few animals, the experience of a hiker named Jonathan Evison was truly remarkable.
Incredible Encounter
While hiking the Olympic Mountains foothills in Washington, Jonathan noticed something intriguing. At the base of a tree, he discovered a small, mud-covered ball of black fuzz.
As he approached, he was shocked to realize it was a bear cub. Although Jonathan, a New York Times bestselling author, frequently encounters bears in the area, he had never seen a cub before. Understanding the importance of not intervening, as the mother bear was likely close by, he decided to move along, hoping for their reunion.
Familiar Face
The following morning, Jonathan returned to the same trail. To his delight, he found the cub missing, suggesting it had been reunited with its mother. However, strange cries soon interrupted his peace. To his dismay, the cub was trapped under a fallen tree limb just feet from the path. Jonathan knew he had to help.
“I knew I had to help the little fella,” Jonathan shared with The Dodo.
With great care, Jonathan freed the little cub, who happily followed him. “Once I freed him, he basically attached himself to me, so I walked a mile back to the cabin with the cub either right on my heels or clinging to my ankle,” he recounted.
Knowing that he couldn’t simply adopt the bear cub, Jonathan called for backup.
Help Is On The Way
After contacting the West Sound Wildlife Shelter, he was advised to bring in the cub for proper care and support.
Upon the cub’s arrival, the staff swiftly provided food, water, and a thorough checkup to ensure it had no injuries. After confirming its good health, the cub was then transferred to PAWS Animal Welfare Society.
Since PAWS had taken in another orphaned cub, the two cubs would provide each other with comfort and security as they adjusted to their new surroundings. They will remain at the facility until experts decide the best course of action for their future.
Whatever the outcome, it’s reassuring to know these cubs are on the path to a happy and healthy life.
