Hunters shoot, wound grizzly near Bigfork

Wildlife officials say hunters shot and wounded an adult female grizzly bear north of Bigfork Sunday.

According to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, the encounter took place around noon in the Peters Ridge area. Two hunters were hiking down a ridge with a third man nearby. The two individuals entered a brush-covered area when the bear emerged about 60 yards away and charged.

The two hunters yelled and fired their rifles at the bear. They each fired another round while fleeing the area.

The pair met their companion at their vehicle and later notified officers. None of the hunters were carrying bear spray, Fish, Wildlife and Parks reports.

The agency’s officers investigated the incident and determined that the adult female grizzly had been wounded in the encounter.

They tracked the bear for about a mile without finding her. The search was eventually suspended due to poor conditions and the lack of snow.

Fish, Wildlife and Parks reminds the public that bears are still active and searching for food before hibernation. Residents are reminded to remove food attractants, such as garbage and bird feeders, to avoid conflicts with bears.

Outdoor recreationists are encouraged to remain “bear aware” and take precautionary steps, including carrying bear spray. For more information, visit fwp.mt.gov.