This Bear Was Tranquilized and Almost Drowned in The Ocean. But A Hero Risked it All to Save Him.

An adorable and large 400lb black bear stumbled his way into a peaceful neighborhood in Florida. The poor bear didn’t mean any harm. He just lost his way. We decided to name him Baloo. When Wildlife officers arrived, they had no choice but sedate Big Baloo in order to safely get him back to his home in the Osceola National Forest.

Becky Bickerstaff, Adam Warwick / The Nature Conservancy

When the tranquilizer dart struck Baloo he began to panic and started running towards the ocean.

Becky Bickerstaff, Adam Warwick / The Nature Conservancy

But as Baloo swam into the Gulf, he became woozy from the tranquilizer and started to drown.

Becky Bickerstaff, Adam Warwick / The Nature Conservancy

Thankfully, Adam Warwick, who just so happens to be a biologist with the Wildlife Commission was nearby, and he wasn’t going to let sweet Baloo drown.

Becky Bickerstaff, Adam Warwick / The Nature Conservancy

So Adam swam after Baloo.

Becky Bickerstaff, Adam Warwick / The Nature Conservancy

"It was a spur of the moment decision. I had a lot of adrenaline pumping when I saw the bear in the water," the brave Adam said.

Becky Bickerstaff, Adam Warwick / The Nature Conservancy

Even though Adam knew that saving Baloo could be potentially dangerous because the bear was afraid and would possible defend itself, he was still determined to rescue him.