Montana Grizzly Deaths Climbing Again This Fall

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks now says 32 grizzly bears have died this year, the new total following the latest confrontation in Lincoln County.

Friday, FWP reported a Trego landowner had shot and killed a bear after he heard noises outside and was confronted by the bear in the early morning light. He wasn't hurt.

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

RELATED: Glacier Hiker Killed by Grizzly

State says grizzlies dying for varied reasons

The new total, reflected in the FWP's grizzly bear dashboard, shows Flathead Country with the most grizzly deaths, with six. Those ranged from an illegal taking in May, conflict removal of a bear, a hunter mistaking a grizzly for a black bear, and a bear being hit by a car.

In all, 7 grizzlies have died from car collisions, primarily in Western and Northwestern Montana. 14 bears were euthanized for "conflict resolution". Other cases remain under investigation by state and federal authorities.

Montana FWP showing grizzly deaths

     The dashboard was started a couple of years ago by FWP as part of an effort to educate the public and track the reasons grizzlies have been dying in recent seasons.

Now's the time to be cautious

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 in secure buildings or certified bear-resistant containers, taking down bird feeders until winter, thoroughly cleaning barbecue grills after use, picking ripe fruit from trees immediately, and using electric fencing around gardens, fruit crops, and vulnerable livestock.