For many people, hiking offers a peaceful escape into nature, whether taken alone or with friends. Most outings include familiar sights such as squirrels, birds, or deer.
Every so often, though, something unexpected turns an ordinary walk into a story that will be remembered for years.
A Strange Sight On The Trail
While hiking near the foothills of the Olympic Mountains in western Washington, Jonathan Evison spotted something unusual in the distance.
At the base of a tree sat what looked like a strange, mud-covered clump of black fur.
Jonathan approached, and only then did he understand what he was looking at.
The mysterious bundle was a very small bear cub.
Jonathan, a New York Times bestselling author who lives nearby, hikes this area daily and often sees wildlife. However, he had never come across such a young cub by itself.
Assuming the mother was somewhere close, Jonathan decided not to intervene. He continued along the trail, hoping the cub and his mother would soon reconnect.
A Call for Help
The following morning, Jonathan returned to the same route as part of his routine. When he reached the spot where the cub had been resting, the area was empty. Feeling encouraged, he believed the mother had returned.
But as he walked farther into the forest, he heard faint cries coming from just off the path.
Only a few steps away, he saw the same cub pinned beneath a fallen tree branch, struggling and calling out. This time, Jonathan knew the situation was different.
“I knew I had to help the little fella,” Jonathan told The Dodo.
Jonathan lifted the heavy branch and freed the young cub. The tiny bear seemed thrilled by the relief and surprised Jonathan by staying close to 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 said.
Although Jonathan felt connected to the cub, he understood that he could not care for a wild animal himself. Professional help was needed.
Safe Hands And A New Companion
After Jonathan contacted the West Sound Wildlife Shelter, staff advised him to bring the cub in so they could evaluate and support him properly.
The team at the shelter provided food and water right away, followed by a full medical exam. Fortunately, despite everything he had been through, the cub was in good condition.
Soon after, he was transferred to PAWS Animal Welfare Society, which specializes in long-term rehabilitation.
At PAWS, the young cub met another orphaned bear his age. Having a companion would comfort them both and help them adjust to their temporary environment.
The two cubs will remain at the PAWS facility until wildlife experts determine when they are ready to return to the forest.
Thanks to Jonathan’s quick actions and kindness, a tiny bear who had been struggling alone now has the chance to grow, recover, and eventually return to the wild where he belongs.