Another Grizzly Dead After Confrontation in NW Montana

A Northwest Montana landowner shot and killed a male grizzly bear Thursday morning following a close-range encounter outside a Trego area residence, north of Whitefish.

According to Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, the incident occurred on the morning of October 1 when the resident walked outside to investigate unusual noises coming from the property. The landowner encountered the grizzly at close quarters and fatally shot the animal. No human injuries were reported.

     Wardens with Montana FWP and investigators with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service responded to the scene to assess the situation.

Property owner not hurt in confrontation

“We are thankful to know the landowner was unharmed in this incident,” said FWP Director Christy Clark. “We understand that an encounter like this can be unsettling. Fall is an especially active time for bears as they move more in search of food, which can increase the potential for bear-related conflicts.”

Wildlife officials noted that bears across the region are currently in hyperphagia—a seasonal phase of intensive feeding during which bears consume vast quantities of calories to build vital fat reserves ahead of winter denning.

RELATED: Grizzly Euthanized for Killing Cattle on Rocky Mt Front

Important steps right now

FWP emphasizes that securing all outdoor attractants is the single most effective way to deter bears and reduce the risk of human-wildlife conflicts. Recommended precautions include storing garbage and pet food inside secure buildings or certified bear-resistant containers, taking down bird feeders until winter, cleaning barbecue grills thoroughly after use, picking ripe fruit from trees immediately, and using electric fencing around gardens, fruit crops, and vulnerable livestock.

More than 30 grizzlies have died

FWP reports more than 31 grizzlies have died in Montana so far this year, with Flathead County at the top of the list with 6 mortalities.