Bear Climbs on the Top of a Power Pole

An unusual wildlife rescue ended in tragedy in New Mexico after a black bear climbed a power pole near the town of Gladstone and was fatally electrocuted.

Rescuers responded quickly after a family spotted the animal, but experts determined that tranquilizing the bear at such a height would likely have caused a fatal fall.

Before an alternative rescue plan could be carried out, the bear came into contact with live power lines and died instantly. Wildlife officials say bears sometimes mistake utility poles for trees, especially when fleeing from danger or startled by people, dogs, or traffic.