GARDINER – A hunter killed a grizzly bear Tuesday in an encounter in Beattie Gulch, an area north of Gardiner.
The hunter was reportedly charged by the bear before shooting and killing the bear at close range in self-defense. The hunter was not injured.
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks received a report of the incident the same day. FWP staff and staff from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service, and National Park Service visited the site and confirmed the bear mortality. An animal carcass was found nearby, and FWP bear specialists and game wardens determined the bear was likely acting defensively.
This incident is still under investigation by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.
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:
