Black bear relocated after being spotted 30-feet up tree in Michigan neighborhood

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, Mich., (WPBN/WGTU) — A 350-pound black bear that got comfortable up in a tree in a neighborhood was tranquilized and relocated by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) during the weekend.

Around 7 a.m. EDT on Mother’s Day, residents noticed officers with the Traverse City Police Department blocking off the road.

A little while later, the DNR showed up, along with dozens of spectators.

It’s like the best block party ever,” Annette Andersen said.

It was all because a black bear climbed about 30-feet up into a tree.

DNR officers fired at least four tranquilizer darts into the animal's behind. It finally fell asleep and dropped onto mattresses below.

Ashlea Walter hauled mattresses from her house to soften the fall, the Traverse City Record-Eagle reported.

Spectators sitting on lawns or in chairs held their phones up to take pictures and video.

They’re a tough animal," said Steve Griffith, a state wildlife biologist. “Obviously, they are in trees all the time, and they do have accidents in the wild. ... They can take a pretty good fall.”

The bear was transferred on a tarp to a cylindrical bear trap after his vital signs and airway were checked.

Authorities then relocated the animal at least 60 miles away.

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EDITOR'S NOTE: The Associated Press contributed to this report.