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Recent encounters with grizzly bears in Montana have heightened concerns, with separate incidents leading to defensive fatalities, reports the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks in their latest news releases.
Bozeman’s Tom Miner Basin Incident
In the Tom Miner Basin, near Bozeman, an unexpected face-off occurred between two anglers and an adult male grizzly bear on August 30.
This sudden confrontation, on private land close to Tom Miner Creek, saw one of the anglers resorting to shooting the bear for self-protection.
Miraculously, both men emerged uninjured. Preliminary investigations point toward the grizzly’s defensive behavior.
Whitefish Range Scare
Days earlier, in the Whitefish Range, a routine scouting trip turned perilous for two Whitefish locals.
On the afternoon of August 26, they inadvertently encountered a female grizzly, aged about 25 years, and her cub. This mother bear had been previously tagged for population monitoring back in 2009.
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The duo found themselves dangerously close, a mere 15 feet away! The protective mother charged, leading both men to discharge their firearms. Amidst the turmoil, one man unintentionally shot his partner in the shoulder, necessitating immediate medical attention.
The injured individual received immediate medical care and is now stable.
Both incidents, now under Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ microscope, underscore the increasing overlaps between Montana’s burgeoning grizzly population and human activities.
MFWP Safety in Bear Country: Tips to Remember
- Be Prepared: Always carry bear spray and familiarize yourself with its application.
- Group Travel: Stick together and maintain a noise level to ward off potential bear surprises.
- Stay Alert: Steer clear of known bear attractants like animal remains.
- Food Storage: Abide by all food storage guidelines to avoid unwanted attention.
- Bear Etiquette: Maintain a respectful distance and exit calmly if you encounter a bear.
- Protect Your Perimeter: Ensure garbage and other potential attractants are secure. Remember, feeding bears in Montana is strictly prohibited.
For an in-depth guide on navigating Montana’s bear-prone zones, please consult fwp.mt.gov/conservation/wildlife-management/bear.
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