BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — State wildlife officials are warning bird hunters along the Rocky Mountain Front to be aware of bears in the area.

The Billings Gazette reports (http://bit.ly/1jpJ6cu ) that with fewer berries and natural foods available this year, more grizzly bears have been drawn to streams and river bottoms along the Front.

Officials recommend carrying bear spray, as that has been shown to be more effective in warding off bears than pistols.

Bird hunters could encounter grizzlies now and into November during the big game season.

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