For many, hiking is a peaceful way to connect with nature, whether done solo or with friends. Typically, hikers encounter familiar sights like squirrels, birds, or deer.
But every so often, something unexpected turns an ordinary hike into an unforgettable story.
An Unexpected Discovery On The Trail
While hiking near the foothills of the Olympic Mountains in western Washington, Jonathan Evison noticed something unusual in the distance.
At the base of a tree sat what appeared to be a strange, mud-covered clump of black fur.
As Jonathan approached, he realized what he was looking at.
The mysterious bundle was actually a very small bear cub.
Jonathan, a New York Times bestselling author who lives nearby, hikes in the area regularly and often encounters wildlife. However, he had never come across such a young cub alone.
Assuming the mother was nearby, Jonathan chose not to intervene. He continued along the trail, hoping that the cub and its mother would soon reunite.
A Cry For Help
The next morning, Jonathan returned to the same area as part of his usual routine. When he reached the spot where the cub had been resting, he found the area empty. Encouraged, he thought that perhaps the mother had returned.
However, as he continued down the path, faint cries reached his ears from just off the trail.
A few steps away, he found the same cub pinned under a fallen tree branch, struggling and crying out. Jonathan knew that this time, 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 tiny cub. The bear seemed overjoyed 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.
Though Jonathan felt a strong connection to the cub, he understood that caring for a wild animal was beyond his abilities. Professional help was needed.
Safe Care And A New Friend
After contacting the West Sound Wildlife Shelter, Jonathan was advised to bring the cub in for a thorough evaluation.
The shelter staff provided food and water immediately, followed by a full medical examination. Fortunately, despite his ordeal, the cub was in good condition.
Soon after, the cub was transferred to PAWS Animal Welfare Society, an organization specializing in long-term rehabilitation.
At PAWS, the cub met another orphaned bear of the same age. Having a companion would provide comfort for both of them and help them adjust to their new temporary home.
The two cubs will remain at the PAWS facility until wildlife experts determine when it’s safe for them to be returned to the wild.
Thanks to Jonathan’s quick thinking and compassion, the young bear, once struggling alone, now has the opportunity to heal, grow, and eventually return to its natural home in the wild.