Drunk Grizzlies Getting Run Over By Trains
In a bizarre tale from the States of Montana (US), grizzly bears near Glacier National Park are literally getting smashed by trains, and the reason behind it is as surprising as it is grim. According to reports from Cowboy State Daily, over 60 grizzlies have met their untimely end since 1980 along a perilous rail line. The culprit? Fermented grain spilled from railcars, turning the tracks into a bear-sized brewery.
It seems that these intoxicated bears, drawn to the tempting treats on the tracks, might be nodding off in a drunken stupor right in the path of oncoming trains. Attempts to outrun the locomotives, described as “drunken,” have resulted in a growing death toll, with 2019 marking a grisly record of eight bear fatalities.
While the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem grizzlies have their vehicular challenges, the Glacier Park grizzlies face an unusual adversary in the form of locomotives. Conservationists are concerned, not just about the immediate threat to the bears but also the potential mingling of two distinct populations that could have long-term consequences for the species.
As the death toll rises, the blame game begins. Wildlife experts claim that not enough is being done to protect the inebriated grizzlies. Suggestions range from noise-making devices at “kill zones” to lighter train loads, but the real question is, can anything be effective when the bears are intoxicated on a bear-sized night out?
