A bear living in Bridle Trails was captured Friday night, and removed this morning. It is the first bear to be spotted in Bridle Trails in more than 45 years.

The bear was a male, about 2-1/2 years old, weighing about 175 pounds. He was captured in the Pikes Peak neighborhood near the power lines.

His “bait” was the irresistible combination of Krispy Kreme glazed doughnuts topped with vanilla extract. The bear will be located greater than 40 miles from the Bridle Trails neighborhood to deter a return visit.

Officials say it is a difficult time to relocate a bear as he will need to quickly identify a den, and hope not to be infringing on already established territory for dominant bears.

Though the bear has been removed, neighborhood residents were advised to understand their role in not providing buffet opportunities adding that the capture of this bear is not likely to be the last that will visit the area.

A combination of developments that have encroached on bear and other wildlife habitats and the creation of green belts for the enjoyment of residents has provided convenient pathways for wildlife to travel from their natural habitats into populated areas.

Those familiar with the situation say that this year there was a complete failure of the berry and nut crops which are essential to the diets of bear. The best defense for homeowners is eliminating food sources.

Bridle Trails neighbors say they are considering such options as working with Allied Waste and acquiring bear-proof garbage cans to thinking again about composting.

The state Department of Fish and Wildlife presented an educational program at Cherry Crest Elementary School this week to address the bear issue in the neighborhood.