Black Bear Killed on Highway

A sow black bear was killed on Highway 191 in Gallatin Canyon after a vehicle struck the mother bear that was with its two cubs. When authorities arrived at the scene they found the mother bear in a nearby ditch, while the two cubs had scrambled up a tree.

After a Fish, Wildlife and Parks warden arrived at the scene the bear carcass was pulled off the road; however the two cubs which were big enough to survive the winter by themselves were not removed.

While many are unsure as to why the bears were in the area, one resident noted that garbage bins had been tipped over earlier in the week that wasn’t far from where the black bear was hit.

Generally, at this time of year bears are very active as they prepare of their winter hibernation. As a result of their food gathering, they are usually on a feeding frenzy, and are often searching for anything that they can eat.

Other food sources that prove attracting to bears are bird feeders, pet food that is left outside and apples. It is recommended that apples be picked from the trees, bird feeders be taken down and pet food should be placed in a secure area.

The FWP is always advising hikers that are in groups of two or more to be especially alert, to make plenty of noise, and to be aware to the places that have scratches on trees, digging spots or animal carcasses.

Additionally, individuals should also make sure that they have bear spray on them before they venture on a hike. The ideal place to have the stunning spray is on your belt, which provides quick access to it should you require its assistance. Make sure that it is not inside your backpack.

If hikers take the necessary safety precautions to begin with then they should be able to avoid any threat from a bear. And yet, if you do find yourself confronted by a bear it’s important to remain calm, and to utilize your bear spray on the bear if the bear decides to come nearer.