ATHOL, Id. — A North Idaho family had an unexpected guest Sunday night -- a grizzly bear.
The bear ventured into the Kearl family's yard Sunday evening around 7 p.m., and the family got the whole thing on camera.
"I was amazed that there was actually a bear in our yard," 11-year-old Caylin Kearl said.
Wildlife officials said it was a young grizzly bear, which are not seen in the area very often.
The Idaho Department of Fish and Game has been tracking the bear since Saturday when it was reportedly spotted by other residents. Officials said the bear is likely a two-and-a-half-year-old male.
Officials are asking people to continue reporting bear sightings to increase the chances of catching it.
Grizzly bears are federally protected under the Endangered Species Act. The bear's age, sex and activity will determine Fish and Game officials' next steps.
On Sunday, he was on a mission for an easy meal in the Kearl's yard. Caylin said the bear was interested in their chicken coop.
"He walked over there and started pawing at the chicks," she said.
The bear tried to climb in the chicken coop, but was not able to get over the fence. It also started playing with the sprinklers in the yard.
Caylin's mother Crystal said she was in disbelief when she saw the bear wandering around outside of their home.
"We had heard from neighbors that morning that there was a bear nearby, but I didn't really think a whole lot of it because I figured it was just a black bear and we do live in the woods," Crystal said.
The bear was also spotted in Garwood, Chilco and in other areas in Athol. Wildlife officials said they set a trap for the bear and are still actively looking for it. They are asking for those who see the bear to call Fish and Game's Panhandle regional office immediately at (208) 769-1414.
As the search continues, Crystal said she hopes the grizzly does not find its way back to her yard.
"It's pretty scary because you don't want to go walking about outside and have that surprise you," she said.
If officials decide to relocate the bear, biologists will use a radio collar to track it.