On a roadside in New Mexico, USA, a giant bear was trapped atop a utility pole more than 10 meters high, shocking local road users. The bear was later reported to have died from electrocution.
According to the UK’s The Sun, the incident took place recently near Gladstone, about 274 kilometers east of Santa Fe.
A video circulating on the social platform X shows the animal clinging tightly to the pole, struggling to keep its balance, and appearing to be gasping for breath.
The person filming, Shannon Mulles, said she discovered the animal while driving along Kilometer 56, traveling from Red River, New Mexico, to Oklahoma.
"At first I thought the bear was already dead, but upon approaching I found it was still alive."
Several witnesses quickly called for rescue, but local wildlife officials reported that there was nothing they could do to save the bear.
Additionally, the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish confirmed to the New York Post that the bear died from electrocution shortly after.
Wildlife experts said the bear may have climbed the pole after being frightened by humans, vehicles, or dogs.