Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has confirmed a rare sighting of a grizzly bear in the Bangtail Mountains, northeast of Bozeman. The subadult male was captured on a trail camera in the Custer Gallatin National Forest on December 17. This marks the first confirmed presence of grizzlies in this area in over 50 years. Wildlife experts noted that it’s not uncommon for bears to delay entering their dens for winter.
Greg Lemon from FWP highlighted that bear activity, though diminished in winter, can still occur. While the Bridger Mountains nearby aren’t typical grizzly territory, sightings there occasionally happen. FWP’s December 23 release mentioned other regional grizzly sightings, including one bear near Livingston along the Yellowstone River this fall. The department advises the public to exercise caution, as grizzlies are reoccupying parts of the state.
In recent years, there have been several documented grizzly sightings across Montana. These include a bear photographed in the Shields Valley, a video of bears in Ulm, and sightings in the Pryor Mountains and greater Helena area. The easternmost grizzly sighting in a century was recorded in the Missouri River Breaks.
Federally protected under the Endangered Species Act since 1975, grizzlies continue to be a topic of debate. Montana and Wyoming officials have pushed for delisting, but the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in January proposed maintaining their “threatened” status in certain areas. Efforts by FWP focus on educating the public to reduce bear-human conflicts and ensure safety.
To prevent conflicts, FWP urges precautions for those in bear country. Recommendations include carrying bear spray, traveling in groups, and securing attractants like garbage and food. Grizzly and black bears often venture into human-populated areas, leading to potential conflicts that sometimes result in the euthanization of “problem bears” to prevent future incidents.
Grizzly bear mortality rates in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem have been concerning, with this year witnessing nearly record numbers of deaths. As of late December, 32 grizzly deaths were reported across Montana, with “conflict removal” being a significant cause. The estimated grizzly population in the GYE is around 1,050 bears.
—
Read More Montana News
