Grizzly Bear Leaves Montana Stunned

In West Yellowstone, Montana, a tourist-minded town around 140 miles from White Sulphur Springs, a woman was found dead on Buttermilk Trail. She was located on the morning of July 22nd. The cause of death was determined to be wounds consistent with a grizzly bear attack. Tracks were found matching with the print of a grizzly bear. The woman was found without any weapons or bear spray. The bear is yet to be found. The grizzly bear population in the wide state of Montana is becoming more and more dense, as well as becoming more extensive geographically. Meagher County lies in the heart of Montana so it is crucial to know the difference between a black bear and a grizzly bear. The grizzly can be characterized by its brown color, prominent shoulder hump, dished/dipped face, and lengthly claws. The black bear lacks a shoulder hump, has pointed/tall ears, short claws, and a contrasting straight face profile. Tracks are differentiated by claw length in the print as well as how close the bear’s toes are together. A grizzly bear’s toes will appear closer in proximity to one another, and a black bear’s will be more separated. Black bears are a very common occurrence in the Meagher area. Grizzly bears are not spotted near as often, but they have been seen by Fish Wildlife & Parks on trail cams throughout the county. Thus, it is important to know how to react to the different species. If you see a brown bear, keep your eyes on the animal, remain calm, and back away slowly. If the black bear is to approach, it is safe to make noise, yell, and look larger by lifting and waving arms. If one was to encounter a grizzly, however, do NOT make eye contact, walk away slowly sideways, and if you are armed with bear spray or something else, prepare to use it. If the bear charges, you must stand your ground, as you cannot out run the large and athletic animal. Bear identification graphic via fwp.mt.gov