MONTANA WARNS BIRD HUNTERS – As grizzly bear populations continue to thrive, reports of attacks are becoming more frequent. Specifically, in Montana. Grizzly bears have also been hit by trains and have been known to inflict livestock predation.
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks officials have warned pheasant hunters to be vigilant while afield. There are logical concerns with early snow pushing grizzlies down into lower country for food prior to going into hibernation. The concerns are legitimate. In 2017, a pheasant hunter in Montana killed a charging grizzly bear with his 12 gauge.
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks officials commented:
“This autumn is like no other I can remember in many years. Grizzly bears are actively moving, searching for natural foods lost in the two recent snowstorms on the [Rocky Mountain] Front.” -Mike Madel
“Mountain grouse hunters, upland game bird hunters – when you get out of [your] trucks and creep into primo hunting grounds, in the back of your mind a light should come on saying, ‘I wonder if there’s a grizzly in there feeding on the lovely rose hips, chokecherries or hawthorn berries.’ Even waterfowl hunters, the guys that like the potholes and the little sloughs along the Clark Fork River – everyone should be thinking grizzly bears.” -Jamie Jonkel
Basic awareness will go a long ways. Like the age-old adage, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Bird hunters will do well to carry bear spray and / or a sidearm. Constantly be look for bear sign and simply avoid areas where there is bear sign. Use your glass to survey areas you intend to hunt before you go too far. Don’t hunt alone if you can avoid it. And, make sure people are aware of your plans: where you will be and your intended timelines.
Do you think Montana is being “grizzly-jumpy?” Is there actually enough cause for concern?
