Last week near West Yellowstone, Montana, an encounter involving bowhunters resulted in the death of a sow grizzly. The incident happened at Tepee Creek, north of the town. The bear, accompanied by two yearlings, reportedly charged the hunters, prompting them to defend themselves using handguns. The confrontation led to the death of the sow and injuries to one of the yearlings. The hunters remained unharmed.
An investigation by bear specialists, game wardens, a helicopter pilot from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, and Custer Gallatin National Forest law enforcement confirmed the older female bear was dead, and found signs of an injured yearling. The yearlings themselves were not located.
Other Grizzlies Killed By Hunters in Region
This is the second such encounter by archery hunters in the last couple of weeks. On Sunday, September 1, a bowhunter survived a grizzly attack while hunting elk near Island Park, Idaho. The hunter, who was with a friend, was attacked and hurt by an adult male bear on the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. The men killed the bear with their sidearms. The injured hunter was able to call 911 and was airlifted to an Idaho Falls hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
More Grizzly Encounters Likely
As area grizzly populations become denser and more widespread, interactions between bears and humans, including hunters, are increasingly likely. September, coinciding with both hunting season and a period of heightened bear activity due to pre-hibernation feeding, poses a particular risk for such encounters.
In response to these risks, authorities emphasize the importance of taking precautions such as carrying bear spray, making noise, traveling in groups, and being vigilant around animal carcasses and dense vegetation. These measures aim to prevent conflicts and ensure safety for both humans and bears. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, are planning no further management actions although the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service continues its investigation.
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