Yukon man clawed by bear

A Haines Junction, Yukon, man is lucky to be alive after a close encounter with an aggressive bear Thursday.

The adult black bear showed up Thursday morning at his property about 10 kilometres outside the community.

Conservation officer Kris Gustafson said the man was clawed on the back of his legs as he retreated to the safety of his home. He was later treated at the Haines Junction nursing station and released.

Gustafson said the bear showed no fear of the man or his four dogs. He said the bear persisted even after the man hit it with four-by-four claim posts.

"It's not a typical occurrence, that's for sure," said Gustafson.

"There was no suggestion of attractants on site. It's odd that the bear wasn't deterred by the dogs, because with four dogs present, it's odd they couldn't deter the bear. It must have been very determined not to leave, but fortunately no serious injury resulted."

Gustafson said neighbours have been warned about the incident.

A trap was placed in the man's yard overnight but Gustafson said it has now been removed.