Video: Thieving Bear Steals Hunter's Deer

by
posted on November 29, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
theivingbear_lead.png

On Nov. 16, in Alcona County, Michigan, John Wardynski posted a video to Facebook with the introduction, “Have you ever heard of a Michigan black bear dragging a whitetail deer away? Here's my iPhone video showing my bear encounter.”

After shooting a 6-point buck, Wardynski was following the blood trail when he noticed a bear walking parallel to him about 20 yards away.

According to Wardynski’s post, he initially “Thought it was pretty cool to see a bear that close,” but after discovering the bear’s intent was to snag his downed deer, he was far more concerned. Wardynski made as much noise as he could to discourage the bear, but the would-be thief continued toward the buck. Knowing this wasn’t a fight he wanted to pick, Wardynski backed off.

Upon witnessing the bear attempt to walk off with his deer, Wardynski tried one last time to deter the thievery. The bear, now very aware of Wardynski’s presence, had apparently claimed the deer as his own and decided Wardynski needed to go. As the bear advanced toward Wardynski, the hunter backed farther away onto a side trail where he watched the bear return to the chore of dragging out his buck.

As for the antlers, Wardynski Facebook post simply read, “Would really like to recover the antlers, but will give her space.”

Probably a smart move.

Latest

Buck With Slug
Buck With Slug

Shotgun Slug 101: What to Look For

Don’t overlook shotgun slugs. When hand-picked, they will deliver outstanding accuracy and big game-bagging performance. Here’s a primer.

Leupold Announces Limited-Edition 'Mark 250' Riflescope Package

Commissioned to commemorate the United States Semiquincentennial, the Mark 250 package is built for the patriots that demand performance.

Ruger Celebrates 250 Years of American Liberty with Limited-Production Firearms

Ruger has expanded its 250th Anniversary Series of firearms, further commemorating the United States Semiquincentennial while celebrating the Company's longstanding tradition of American manufacturing. Each limited production model in this special collection is distinctly marked with the inscription, "Made in the 250th Year of American Liberty."

Hunting with Air: Getting Started

Looking into ways to expand your hunting opportunities? Ever think about air gun hunting? Follow along as Tim Hovey gives a great primer for beginners just getting into the discipline.

New for 2026: Hush-Point Cigar .22 Suppressor

Orion Wholesale has announced a collaboration with Hi-Point Firearms and Taylor Customs—the Hush Point Cigar 22 Suppressor. This unique monocore suppressor is designed to resemble, well, you guessed it, a cigar. 

#SundayGunday: Dead Air RXD30Ti

On this week's #SundayGunday, we’re checking out the RXD30Ti, a collaboration between Dead Air Silencers and Ruger Firearms, resulting in one quiet, lightweight, backcountry suppressor. Designed specifically to complement Ruger firearms, the RXD line is a workhorse in it’s own right, providing excellent sound mitigation and recoil reduction. Learn more about it in this exclusive video.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.