Hunter defends himself against charging grizzly bear
- Hunter shoots grizzly bear in self-defense during elk hunting near Henrys Lake.
- Incident happened in heavy timber; the bear was close.
- No human injuries reported; the action was confirmed as self-defense by Idaho Department of Fish and Game.
- Grizzly bears are protected. Hunters should expect possible encounters in Yellowstone region.
The Grizzly Encounter
On September 30th near Henrys Lake in Idaho, an elk hunter was surprised by a large adult female grizzly bear. The sow charged from a short distance away. After warning his hunting partner, the hunter used his sidearm to defend himself, stopping the bear just before it could reach him. No one was hurt. This is the most recent encounter in a busy fall for human-bear encounters.
Investigation and Findings
Immediately after the grizzly bear was shot, the hunter reported the incident to the Citizens Against Poaching hotline. Idaho Department of Fish and Game investigated and found the hunter acted in self-defense, given the close proximity of the charging bear.
Safety Guidelines in Grizzly Areas
Grizzly bears, which are protected by law, are found in areas throughout the Greater Yellowstone region. For those hunting or hiking in these areas:
- Carry bear spray and keep it within reach.
- Hunt or hike with others and communicate your plans.
- Watch for grizzly signs, like fresh tracks, and inform your group.
- Retrieve meat quickly.
- Keep meat, food, and trash 10 feet off the ground and 200 yards from your camp.
- Make noise especially near water or dense areas, to avoid surprising a bear.
Conclusion
Hunters and hikers need to be aware and prepared when in grizzly territory. Stay alert, be cautious, and always prioritize safety.
