Grizzly Bear Sow Euthanized

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Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks personnel euthanized a 20-year old grizzly bear sow on Oct. 23. The sow had become increasingly aggressive toward people in recent weeks at residences along the Yellowstone River north of Gardiner.

 

The bear and her three yearlings were captured on Oct. 22 on the northern boundary of Yellowstone National Park. Yellowstone National Park and the U.S. Geological Survey assisted with the capture at the request of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.

 

The sow was involved with at least two encounters in the fall of 2007 with hunters in the Beattie Gulch area that resulted in injuries to the hunters. Beattie Gulch was subsequently closed temporarily to public to minimize human-bear conflicts.

 

In recent weeks, there were several incidents where the bear displayed aggressive behavior and bluff charged people who surprised her at their residences.

 

Yellowstone National Park agreed to take the three yearlings. The bears will be transported and released within the park.

 

There are numerous grizzly bears in the Gardiner area. Residents, hunters, and other recreationists should be aware that that bears are still extremely active. At this time of year, bears will key in on any available food source, especially wild game carcasses.

 

For more information about living, hunting, and recreating in bear country, visit FWP’s website at http://fwp.mt.gov/wildthings/bear/aware/default.html.