Mar 11, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
Montana Grizzlies Are Waking Up Early—What That January Yellowstone Sighting Means for Spring Turkey, Fishing, and Shed Hunts
Grizzlies emerging weeks—or even months—ahead of the old spring timeline is becoming more common across Montana and Yellowstone. Here’s why it’s happening, where bear activity concentrates first, and how shed hunters, turkey hunters, and early-season anglers can adapt with practical, real-world safety steps.
Mar 11, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
300,000 Snow Geese Are Funneling Into Freezout Lake Right Now—Best Viewing Tips, Timing, and What to Know
Freezout Lake’s spring migration is ramping up fast, with major early flocks already confirmed and peak numbers typically arriving in late March. Here’s where to go, when to show up for the sunrise blast-off, what you’ll need, and how the Wild Wings Festival and spring Conservation Order fit into the month ahead.
Mar 11, 2026 · montanaoutdoor
First Grizzly Spotted in Yellowstone Signals Montana’s Riskiest Backcountry Window—What Hunters Need to Know Now
A Yellowstone grizzly’s first spring appearance is more than a headline—it’s a warning shot for Montana hunters and backcountry users. Over the next six to eight weeks, hungry bears will key in on carcasses and defensive sows with cubs will follow. Here’s what to watch for, where risk spikes, and how to move smarter in grizzly country this spring.
Mar 8, 2026 · Angela Montana
Idaho Shed Hunter Stumbles on Two Napping Mountain Lions—Can You Spot Them in the Photos?
An Idaho outdoorsman looking for sheds got the surprise of a lifetime when he accidentally walked into a pair of mountain lions napping in the sun. The photos and video are a sharp reminder of how easily these predators disappear into the landscape.
Mar 3, 2026 · Angela Montana
Idaho Lethally Removed 82 Mule Deer From a Captive Elk Facility—Here’s Why CWD Risk Drove the Decision
Idaho Fish and Game removed 82 wild mule deer that entered a captive elk facility in GMU 60A after hunters reported seeing them inside during the 2025 season. Officials said lethal removal and CWD testing were the most responsible option because wild deer can’t legally remain in captivity and there’s no reliable live test for chronic wasting disease.
Mar 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Mountain Lions Can Roam Shockingly Far: One Traveled From South Dakota’s Black Hills to Connecticut
Most mountain lions stay within a home range—but documented dispersals show some can go far beyond what most people imagine. One young tom’s journey from South Dakota’s Black Hills to Connecticut topped 1,500 miles, and GPS studies have captured other long treks, including a female that logged close to 1,000 miles across multiple western states.
Feb 26, 2026 · Angela Montana
Video: Coyote Chases 3-Year-Old Through Front Gate in Pasadena—Mom’s Scream Sends It Running
A coyote was captured on camera chasing a 3-year-old boy through the front gate of his Pasadena home—until his mom’s scream from inside the yard sent the animal the other way. It’s a stark reminder that wildlife awareness isn’t just for the backcountry; sometimes it starts right in the front yard.
Feb 25, 2026 · Angela Montana
Elk Hoof Disease Explained: How TAHD Spreads, What Researchers Know, and Why Hunters Are Worried
Elk hoof disease (TAHD) is a painful, polymicrobial infection that leaves elk lame and struggling to walk. First detected in Southwest Washington in the late 1990s, it surged after 2007–2008 and has spread into parts of Oregon, Idaho, and California. With no vaccine or treatment for wild elk and many unanswered questions about transmission and vulnerability, hunters and wildlife managers across the West—especially in nearby states like Montana—are watching closely.
Feb 24, 2026 · Angela Montana
Watch a Cow Elk Defend Her Calf From a Mountain Lion in Montana (Wild Video)
A cow elk in Montana wastes no time going full defense mode when a mountain lion is near her calf. Hooves fly as the mother elk stomps and strikes—an intense reminder that wildlife threats in the backcountry aren’t limited to predators.
Feb 22, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don’t Feed Wildlife: A “Calm” Elk Can Bite in Seconds When Hand-Fed
A calm-looking elk can still react fast—especially around food. In a clip shared as a reminder, a child’s fingers were nibbled while hand-feeding. Here’s why hand-feeding wildlife is risky and the simplest rule to avoid preventable injuries.
Feb 17, 2026 · Angela Montana
Are Elk Dangerous? What to Know About Aggressive Behavior During the Rut and Calving Season
Elk usually want to avoid people—but they can become dangerous fast during the fall rut or spring calving season. Learn the warning signs (pinned ears, lowered head, charging posture) and what to do if an elk starts closing the distance.
Feb 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
The Dramatic Dating Ritual of Bald Eagles
Bald Eagles engage in a dramatic courtship ritual called "cartwheeling," where they lock talons and freefall, testing their compatibility and strength to ensure only the most committed pairs breed.
Feb 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
Captivating Taxidermy: The Art of Realistic Wildlife Displays
A striking black bear mount on a loft railing showcases expert taxidermy craftsmanship. This art form has evolved, capturing lifelike motion and personality, blending biology and sculpture since the 1800s.
Feb 10, 2026 · Angela Montana
Identifying the Animal: Wolf vs. Coyote Controversy
The internet is doing what it does best—arguing. The clip below from Colorado is making the rounds and has some […]
Feb 6, 2026 · Angela Montana
Yellowstone cougars change diets, behavior to avoid wolves
In Yellowstone, wolves and cougars clash because wolves steal elk kills, sometimes killing cougars. A long-term GPS study shows they’re rivals without reward, unlike smaller predators that scavenge for food.
Feb 5, 2026 · Angela Montana
Appreciating Unique Deer: Beyond Hunting Seasons
Before anyone checks the calendar or reaches for regulations—no, it is not Montana’s general big game season, and no, this […]
Feb 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
What Are Coydogs?
Coydogs, true 50/50 coyote-dog hybrids, are rare and often confused with coyotes or feral dogs. Actual hybrids can be unpredictable and belong in the wild, not as pets.
Feb 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
Balancing Ecosystems: The Role of Wolves in Conservation
Wolf management in Alberta and Montana aims to maintain ecosystem balance, addressing stressed prey populations. It emphasizes science-based strategies rather than emotional reactions, ensuring both predators and prey are sustainably managed.
Jan 30, 2026 · Angela Montana
Why did the Montana elk walk 200 miles to South Dakota?
BRETT FRENCH | bfrench@billingsgazette.com As any hunter can tell you, elk are frustratingly smart, but they also adhere to certain […]
Jan 28, 2026 · Angela Montana
Understanding Color Variations in Wildlife
Every once in a while, nature throws us a plot twist that looks straight out of fantasy—an animal dressed in […]
Jan 28, 2026 · Angela Montana
Fort Peck Bald Eagles in Action–Facts and Footage
The Bald Eagle has been the national emblem of the United States since 1782, and, All About Birds reinforces that […]
Jan 27, 2026 · Angela Montana
Colorado Halts Gray Wolf Reintroduction Amid Political Pressure
Colorado has paused its gray wolf reintroduction plans due to political pressure and ranchers’ concerns, leaving the future of the program uncertain amid federal threats and local tensions.
Jan 26, 2026 · Angela Montana
Sun Valley Coyote Warning: Protect Your Dogs
Coyotes in Sun Valley, Idaho, are increasingly approaching people and pets, raising concerns following a recent fatal dog attack. Idaho Fish and Game urges residents to keep dogs close and manage attractants, especially during breeding season. Responsible hunting is also emphasized to maintain a healthy coyote population and community safety.
Jan 20, 2026 · Angela Montana
Bobcat with Dinner vs. Coyote
Is the Coyote After the Food—or the Bobcat?
Jan 19, 2026 · Angela Montana
When Nature Forgets to Hit Reset
A Rare Horn Mishap Gave This Speed Goat a One-of-a-Kind Look
Jan 18, 2026 · Angela Montana
Bears Are Confused, Winter Is Confused, Everyone Is Confused
Why was a black bear still roaming around in December?
Jan 15, 2026 · Angela Montana
Turn Valentine’s Day Feelings Into….Feedings
Check out this Valentine's Day gift that comes with a bite….literally!
Jan 13, 2026 · Angela Montana
Why One Bull Elk Made A Hunter Turn Around
A hunter’s respect goes beyond the shot….
Jan 12, 2026 · Angela Montana
Why Pets Are Becoming Prey in Colorado’s Growing Suburbs
Coyotes are eating pets — but who’s really to blame?
Jan 9, 2026 · Angela Montana
Animals Have Some Crazy Survival Techniques
When cold weather tries to kill them, these critters just wait it out….
Jan 5, 2026 · Angela Montana
When Elk Start Ordering Off the Deer Menu
Coexisting is fine until winter hits.
Jan 2, 2026 · Angela Montana
Don’t Forget to Look Up
Bear country is not the place to get distracted….
Jan 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
Even Bears Know When Gear is Premium
Always be prepared in bear country….especially if you're looking for bears to take pictures of…
Jan 1, 2026 · Angela Montana
When Deer Have Pretty Unique Eyes…
Have you ever seen a deer like this?
Dec 30, 2025 · Angela Montana
When Wolf Instinct Meets Human Ingenuity
What If Instinct Could Think Ahead?
Dec 29, 2025 · Angela Montana
Different Is Definitely Not Bad…
Not all trophies look the same… and that’s a good thing…
Dec 29, 2025 · Angela Montana
Out Here, Even the Wildlife Drops By
Just another day living where the wild things are…
Dec 24, 2025 · Angela Montana
Front Row Seats (from the car) to a Live Hunt
It's pretty cool to see some elk, but it's even cooler to see a predator stalking them live…
Dec 23, 2025 · Angela Montana
Grizzly Bear Delisting May Be Closer Than We Think
Could Wyoming’s grizzlies be hunted again? Nesvik weighs in…
Dec 19, 2025 · Angela Montana
Massive Elk Herd Roams Through Colorado Neighborhood Yards, Stuns Mom and Daughter
A mom and daughter in Colorado were stunned when a massive elk herd took over their neighborhood yards. The same elk have also been seen along a nearby highway and even shutting down a local golf course—another reminder that in elk country, wildlife can show up anywhere.
Dec 18, 2025 · Angela Montana
The Wolf Debate Just Took a Sharp Turn in Washington
While hunters and ranchers are cheering, animal activists are fuming….
Dec 18, 2025 · Angela Montana
A Gift for Trappers That They Will Actually Use
This simple tool is changing how trappers handle non-targets…
Dec 18, 2025 · Angela Montana
When People’s Reactions to Wildlife Might Create More Chaos
Horses, humans, and a bull elk—watch what happens when they all meet at the same place….
Dec 17, 2025 · Angela Montana
This Is Definitely Not Your Average Deer Hunt
If you think you have seen close encounters, watch this video till the end!
Dec 11, 2025 · Angela Montana
Some Elk Have Attitude
When the road says go, but the elk say no…
Dec 10, 2025 · Angela Montana
A Predator in the Powder
This Bobcat Forgot It Was a Predator for 5 Seconds — The Footage Is Gold!
Dec 7, 2025 · Angela Montana
Mountain Lion Attack From the Road [VIDEO]
This is something you don't see every day!
Dec 5, 2025 · Angela Montana
Ready to Level Up Your Trapping Game? Start With This Wolf Masterclass
Want to trap smarter, not harder? Justin Webb spills the deets in this master class…
Dec 4, 2025 · Angela Montana
When Holiday Mayhem at the Liquor Is Caused by Unexpected Bandit
Wildlife Struggles Are Real… This Raccoon’s Hangover Proves It….
Dec 4, 2025 · Angela Montana
Wild Animals Are Wild—Shocking, We Know
A pretty good survival hack we can pass on is to give wildlife space….