August 11, 2023

REGION-WIDE

Black Bear & Grizzly Bear: Region 2 is starting to see an increase in black bear calls. This is less around conflicts and more around bears being seen along foothills and riparian areas eating chokecherry and serviceberry. Native berries are a very important food resource for bears. You should expect bear activity in these areas with plentiful native berries. If you are out recreating or working in these areas please carry bear spray and know how to use it.

Mountain lion: Mountain lions are being seen in areas where crops and irrigated yards are drawing in deer and elk.

DARBY

Black Bear: A black bear was seen close to cabins feeding on natural foods.

GRANT CREEK

Black Bear: A black bear was seen close to homes eating berries.

LOLO

Black Bear: A black bear killed chickens. FWP worked with the homeowner to get an electric fence installed.

MISSOULA

Grizzly Bear: There has been an increase in grizzly bear activity around the Missoula area. We posted a related news release. This includes 3 verified grizzly bears south of interstate 90 in the Sapphire range. There have been verified reports and unverified reports of a grizzly bear in the North Hills from the Wye all the way to Gold Creek. A grizzly bear was also seen feeding on natural foods in the Ninemile/Frenchtown Face area. So far, no conflicts have been reported.

NINEMILE

Black Bear: A black bear killed chickens. FWP is working with the homeowners on getting an electric fence installed.

Grizzly Bear: A grizzly bear was seen feeding on natural foods in the Ninemile/Frenchtown Face area.