Grizzly bear euthanized in Montana after cattle attacks

Wildlife officials have euthanized an adult female grizzly bear southwest of Augusta, Montana, following a series of cattle attacks on state land. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks reported that the bear was found feeding on a cow carcass on Tuesday evening. The decision to remove the animal was authorized by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and USDA Wildlife Services after investigators confirmed the bear had killed three cows in the Rocky Mountain Front area.

The removal occurred shortly after an archery hunter was injured in a defensive encounter near Elk Creek. While officials are unsure if the euthanized bear was the same individual that attacked the hunter, they noted the encounter appeared to be a surprise, defensive interaction over a carcass. Access to state-owned land via Elk Creek Road remains closed while livestock carcasses are cleared from the area.

This marks the third grizzly bear removed by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks this month. Officials noted that the Dearborn River drainage is currently highly active with bears seeking calories ahead of hibernation.