Bear in New Mexico Climbs Utility Pole, Dies After Encounter

A bear captured attention when it climbed a utility pole in rural New Mexico, turning into a viral sensation. The unusual incident occurred near Gladstone, located about 170 miles east of Santa Fe. Footage shows the bear perched precariously on the crossarm of the pole, struggling to keep balance.

The U.S. Department of the Interior shared the video, humorously commenting, “We appreciate the enthusiasm for American Energy Dominance, but this isn’t what we meant.” The New Mexico Department of Wildlife has not responded to inquiries for comment up to now.

Verification of the footage came through Storyful, also featuring a 911 caller notifying authorities of the bear’s position. The dispatcher mentioned that state officials were alerted to the situation, but tranquilizing the bear while on the pole risked causing it to fall.

Shannon Mullens, who recorded the video, shared that she discovered the bear while traveling from Red River, New Mexico, to Oklahoma. Initially, they mistook the bear for dead but soon realized it was alive.

Unfortunately, the bear died of electrocution before wildlife officials could safely intervene. Such encounters are not uncommon. Bears may climb poles when startled by humans or other activities, treating them like trees for protection. In a similar incident in Arizona in 2021, a bear was safely rescued by wildlife officials.