Montana reports 32 grizzly bear deaths this year

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) has reported that 32 grizzly bears have died in the state so far this year. The updated figure follows a recent incident in Lincoln County where a landowner shot and killed a bear after a confrontation; no injuries were reported.

According to the FWP grizzly bear dashboard, the primary causes of death include conflict resolution and vehicle collisions. Specifically, 14 bears were euthanized for conflict resolution, and seven bears died from car collisions, mostly in Western and Northwestern Montana. Flathead County has recorded the highest number of deaths, totaling six.

Other reported causes include illegal taking and a hunter mistaking a grizzly for a black bear. State and federal authorities, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, are investigating several other cases. FWP officials advise the public to secure outdoor attractants, such as garbage, pet food, and bird feeders, to reduce human-wildlife conflicts.