Black bear chases hunter through woods

State wildlife workers on Sunday were looking for a black bear that chased a hunter on the first day of bow season for deer. Authorities say an unnamed hunter came across the bruin while climbing into a tree stand at Black River Wildlife Management Area on Saturday. The hunter ran from the bear, which gave chase through the woods for half a mile. The hunter was finally able to reach a road and flag down a motorist. The bear did not hurt the hunter, who sustained cuts from briars, branches and brush. While running, the archer tried to shoot an arrow at the bear, though it is unclear whether the animal was hit. The bear has been declared dangerous because of its aggressive nature. Wildlife workers have set snares for the animal. Officials intend to tranquilize and then shoot the bear dead after catching it, said Elaine Makatura, spokeswoman for the state Department of Environmental Protection. Makatura said it is dangerous for people to run from a bear encounter. It is better to slowly back away from the animal while making loud noises.