Grizzly euthanized in eastern Idaho after killing sheep

ISLAND PARK, Idaho – A 26-year-old male grizzly bear officials say had recently killed seven sheep has been euthanized in eastern Idaho.

Idaho Department of Fish and Game officials say an examination of the bear while it was sedated found it had lost its upper teeth and its lower teeth were in bad shape.

Officials say its poor dental health caused the bear to prey on sheep. Officials say that combination led to the decision to euthanize the bear on Saturday after getting permission from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Officials trapped the bear 23 years ago for scientific purposes and it had not been known to be in any human-related conflicts until the killing of the sheep.