BRETT FRENCH | bfrench@billingsgazette.com Over the past three to four years, bears have gotten bolder in the mountain town of […]

Montana FWP biologist Colby Anton explains why black bears are most dangerous in fall — and what hunters need to do to stay safe in the backcountry.

Black bears are increasingly showing up around Billings due to a natural food shortage in the Rocky Mountain West. As these bears approach urban areas in search of food, residents are urged to secure garbage and pet food. Conflicts may rise in fall as bears prepare for hibernation. Report sightings to FWP.

Learn why bird feeders and salt licks attract hungry grizzly bears to your Montana property each spring and how to prevent dangerous wildlife conflicts.