PHOTOS: Bear cub found in dog crate released back into wild

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — It’s a bear-y happy ending for a Capital Region cub, according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC). The little black bear was released back into the Adirondack wilderness this past week after being found trapped in a crate earlier this year.

DEC Environmental Conservation Officers had found the bear cub in the garage of a Fulton County home in June. The bear was being kept in a dog crate and being fed dog food, authorities said.

According to officials, the person unlawfully keeping the bear confessed that they had found the cub nearby and lured her into the crate. DEC officers seized the bear and brought her to Friends of the Feathered and Furry Wildlife Center in Greene County for care.

While being rehabilitated, the cub grew to be about double her original size. This past week, DEC Bureau of Wildlife staff released her back into the Adirondacks.

DEC reminded the public that keeping wildlife in captivity is not only illegal but also harmful for the animal. Anyone aware of any similar situations should contact 1-844-DEC-ECOs (1-844-332-3267).