Always Be Bear Aware In Big Sky Country
Montana – Last weekend saw two separate grizzly bear attacks in SW Montana. Both involved bowhunters who were mauled by grizzly bears. Both victims were treated at the hospital and released. The incidents occurred roughly 20 to 25 miles a part, as the crow flies.
On Saturday, September 24, 2016 a bowhunter was attacked by a grizzly bear when calling for elk near Cabin Creek north of Hebgen Lake in the Madison Range.
On Sunday, September 25, 2016 a bowhunter was mauled by what is believed to be a female grizzly with cubs. The man had puncture and bite injuries. This incident occurred on the north side of Tom Miner Basin in the Gallatin Range near Gardiner in the Paradise Valley.
Both of these areas are prime grizzly habitats. Bears are often attracted to where elk and deer have been killed. Elk bugles and cow calls may also attract bears.
Montana Fish, Wildlife, & Parks did not locate the bears involved because the attacks were “determined to be non-predatory and natural responses to close encounters between bears and humans.” Generally bears are only located if they are repeat offenders or injured. (BillingsGazette.com).
If you’re in SW Montana, always be bear aware. Travel in groups and carry bear spray. Read the full press release from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks for more info about these incidents.
See Also: What You Need To Know About Bear Spray
The crew here at A Mountain Journey has spent quite a bit of time in both the Madison and Gallatin Ranges. Grizzly bears signs are frequent and they are always present. Always be bear aware in Big Sky Country!
