BOZEMAN – An angler killed a grizzly bear in self-defense this week in the Tom Miner Basin.
The encounter happened on Aug. 30 on private land along Tom Miner Creek. Two anglers were walking through dense vegetation when they were charged by a grizzly bear. One of the anglers shot and killed the bear. No people were injured.
The bear’s behavior was likely defensive in the surprise, close encounter. The bear was an adult male grizzly. This incident is still under investigation.
Be bear aware
Montana is bear country. Grizzly bear populations continue to become denser and more widespread in Montana, increasing the likelihood that residents and recreationists will encounter them in more places each year.
This time of year is when bears are active for longer periods as they consume more food in preparation for hibernation. This period overlaps with hunting season and other fall recreation activities.
Avoiding conflicts with bears is easier than dealing with conflicts. Here are some precautions to help residents, recreationists and people who work outdoors avoid negative bear encounters:
