See Montana's Bears From A Safe Distance

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As Montanan’s prepare for a summer in the great outdoors, they can learn about Montana’s black and grizzly bears by visiting the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ Be Bear Aware web pages.

"Lots of photos of Montana’s bears and streaming video of bears in action help make FWP’s Be Bear Aware web pages an interesting place to visit on the Internet," said Ron Aasheim, FWP Communications and Education division administrator.

Aasheim said the images are fun to browse, and a good way to learn about bear behavior, body language and movement. That knowledge comes in handy when you encounter a bear in the woods.

Aasheim said that FWP strongly recommends that people carry bear spray when recreating in bear country.

The web pages are also helpful to those who reside in bear country full or part time.

"You’ll learn responsible ways to feed your pets, manage your garbage, landscape the yard and carry out a host of other activities without attracting bears," he said.   "All of the information is geared to preventing conflicts between bears and people."

An interactive game of "find the bear attractant" is geared for youngsters and is a good review for adults too.

Homeowners can access a self-assessment form that will help them identify bear attractants. Contact information for FWP’s bear management specialists is also available so homeowners can call for help with their particular situation.

To visit FWP’s Be Bear Aware web pages, go to FWP’s home page at fwp.mt.gov and look under Conservation.