September 15, 2025

This update covers information for late July, August, and early September (since the last report in July).
Contact information, FWP Region 2 Bear Team: fwpr2bearlionreports@mt.gov, 406-542-5500.

REGION-WIDE

FWP has fielded multiple phone calls about the absence of bear activity in Missoula’s residential areas. This is likely due to abundant natural foods and progressive community-driven bear awareness efforts. When garbage, bird feeders and other attractants are unavailable, bears are not rewarded when seeking unnatural foods. As a result, fewer bears have been observed entering communities and investigating back yards.

However, even during quiet times in spring, summer, and fall, Montanans must stay vigilant. Don’t let your guard down and leave the garage door open. Don’t put your bird feeders back up and don’t turn the electric fence off around the chicken coop or goat pen. Keep managing garbage and attractants responsibly. In Montana you never know when a bear or predator might pass by, and the last thing you want to do is inadvertently train bears and other predators to visit your home. Once bears discover an unnatural food source such as garbage or fruit they return in the future and will explore neighboring homes/farms for similar treats.

In August and early September, natural bear foods were abundant across FWP Region 2 (R2). Serviceberries ripened in July and August, drawing bears to valley floors, while many shifted to river corridors in mid-August for chokecherries, which remain in some areas. Huckleberries were also abundant during July and August (low to mid-elevations) and currently hikers and bowhunters are seeing bears, and good huckleberry production, in high elevation basins. Other berries, such as hawthorn, kinnikinnick, buffalo berry, elderberry, snowberry, rosehip, dogwood and mountain ash have also been abundant. As a result, bear conflicts have been minimal. Although not as many bears are being observed in communities, FWP is fielding numerous reports of bears in the back country, front country, rural areas, and urban fringes.

As fall progresses, bears often turn to domestic fruit, especially in late September and October. Bears key into different types of fruit trees as they ripen and this happens at different times —apricots and cherries in late July, some apples in early August, Asian pears in late August, and plums and heartier apples through September into October. Even when natural foods are abundant, fruit trees —ornamental or otherwise—can attract bears.

To prevent bears from visiting, pick residential fruit promptly. Some communities organize fruit gleaning efforts; if your area has a history of bear activity, consider partnering with community leaders, local churches, or bear-aware groups to coordinate fruit-picking events. In the Missoula Five Valleys area, the Great Bear Foundation offers fruit picking services. For more information, visit their website.

Upcoming community events:

For those managing their own fruit trees, electric fencing is a highly effective tool to deter bears—not only around trees, but also for protecting chickens, small livestock, and beehives. But remember: a fence only works when it’s on. Several bear incidents this summer were linked to inactive fences. Fencing should be maintained and powered year-round.

Technical and financial resources are available for electric fencing installation. Learn more at the links below:

    Grizzly Bear:  FWP has fielded reports of grizzly bear activity across the Clearwater and Blackfoot drainages, including near Garrison Junction, the Deer Lodge Valley, Georgetown Lake, Upper Rock Creek, and the Big Hole Valley. Grizzly bears are slowly expanding into their historic range. Additional grizzly bear activity has been reported in the Ninemile Drainage, Missoula’s North Hills, and the Bitterroot Valley. Most of these grizzly bears are just traveling through and/or feeding on natural berries and forbs, but a handful have investigated residential sites for garbage and other attractants.

    In the Potomac Valley, a lone grizzly bear has been seeking out chicken coops and livestock feed. FWP encourages all Potomac residents with chickens or small livestock to store feed within enclosed buildings and to protect livestock with electric fence. Free-ranging chickens are a major lure for all predators. For information on landowner electric fence financial assistance contact FWP R2.

    In the Swan Valley north of Seeley Lake, there have been multiple incidents of a grizzly bear breaking into cabins and homesites. FWP R1 is actively trapping for this bear.

    When working and recreating in bear country, always carry bear spray and know how to use it. For more information on grizzly bears, bear behavior, and bear attractants check out these sites:

    Black Bear:  Black bear activity remains steady in residential, urban-wildland, and rural areas, with most sightings involving bears feeding on natural foods like berries. However, some conflicts have occurred involving fruit trees, unsecured garbage, bird feeders, and livestock feed. Again, even when bears are behaving, please store all attractants in a bear-resistant manner and remove bird feeders. Keep garage doors closed and only put garbage out on morning of pickup. Bear-resistant cans are available through Grizzly Disposal, Republic Services, Bitterroot Disposal, and now Anaconda Disposal and Tri-County Disposal in Helena. If your sanitation provider doesn’t offer bear-resistant cans, let them know you are interested and encourage them to provide a bear-resistant option.

    Mountain Lion:  FWP continues to receive reports of mountain lion activity across R2. Where deer or elk are present, lions are likely nearby. Feeding and salting wildlife is illegal in Montana. During dry summers, expect increased lion activity in residential and agricultural areas where irrigated lawns and crops attract prey.

    Missoula Bear Buffer Zone Update:  As of April 30, 2025, Phase 2 of Missoula’s garbage ordinance—covering the University District and South Hills—requires all garbage to be stored in a bear-resistant manner. Phase 3 (covering the rest of the Missoula Valley buffer zone) begins April 30, 2026. Since Phase 1, bear conflicts have significantly declined. Learn more at the Missoula Bears Community Resources page.

    Bear-Resistant Cans: Human Error & Tampering
    In the Missoula Bear Buffer Zone, most bear-resistant containers accessed by bears result from human error, such as improper latching. However, some are intentionally disabled—this is considered vandalism and may result in a ticket. If you suspect tampering, contact FWP Region 2 or Missoula Animal Control.

    Potomac Bear Buffer Zone:  Since September 1, 2024, the Missoula County Potomac Valley Bear Mitigation Area ordinance requires all garbage to be stored in a bear-resistant manner. Since the ordinance took effect, bear conflicts have significantly decreased—helping to protect both wildlife and the community.

    ALBERTON, PETTY CREEK & NINEMILE

    Grizzly Bear:  FWP continues to receive reports of grizzly bear activity in the Alberton and Ninemile drainages. No conflicts have been reported.

    Black Bear:  There have been no recent reports of black bears accessing residential attractants, but bears remain active and are currently feeding on abundant natural foods like chokecherries, serviceberries, and hawthorns. As fall progresses and natural food sources decline, some bears may begin seeking out domestic fruit and other attractants. Alberton is taking action to become a Bear Smart Community and has received grant funding for bear-resistant garbage cans.

    ✅ Want to protect fruit trees, chickens, or livestock?
    Contact FWP Region 2 to learn about electric fencing options.

    Get Involved:
    Visit the Bear Smart Alberton Facebook Page or the Ninemile Bear Aware website for more resources and ways to help reduce human-bear conflicts.

    Mountain Lion:  Lions remain commonly seen throughout these areas. In mid-August a mountain lion was photographed on the west side of Alberton. In July there were multiple reports of lions near homesites in lower Ninemile Creek and Sixmile Creek. Lions use game trails associated with salt licks and will also key into areas where wild turkeys roost. Salting and feeding for the purpose of luring in wildlife is illegal in Montana.

    ANACONDA, GEORGETOWN, PHILIPSBURG, UPPER ROCK CREEK & BUTTE

    Grizzly Bear:  FWP verified reports of grizzly bear activity in the Anaconda and Georgetown areas. There have been several reports of grizzly bear tracks and observations in the Pintler Wilderness and other national forest lands. A lone grizzly did investigate several residences and got into garbage, bird seed, and feed supplement in the upper Rock Creek Basin. A grizzly bear was observed near homesites on several occasions near Georgetown Lake. Please secure garbage and use electric fencing around chickens and small livestock.

    Black Bear:  Black bears are active throughout the upper Clark Fork Drainage. A black bear accessed garbage in Anaconda. FWP assisted the homeowner with a temporary electric fence. A black bear accessed uncontained garbage at the Pintler Ranger Station in Phillipsburg. FWP erected a temporary electric fence. Electric fencing is strongly recommended for apiaries, chickens, and livestock, but can also be used to temporarily contain garbage until a bear-resistant enclosure or container can be placed.

    FWP, partner organizations, the Anaconda’s urban wildlife task force, Anaconda Disposal, Washoe Park, and the Anaconda Job Corp are working together to reduce conflicts. The community of Phillipsburg is also working with FWP to reduce bear conflicts. To get involved, learn about bear safety, or install electric fencing, contact FWP Region 2.

    Mountain Lion:  Lions remain commonly seen throughout these areas.

    BITTERROOT VALLEY

    Grizzly Bear:  There have been a handful of unverified reports of grizzly bear activity in the Sapphire Range. Grizzly bear activity has been verified on the Rock Creek side of the mountain Range. FWP has responded to several grizzly reports and searched for tracks, hair samples, and placed cameras.

    Black Bear:  Black bear activity is widespread across the Bitterroot Valley, with numerous bears seen feeding on this season’s serviceberry, chokecherry and hawthorn crops. Most bears are sticking to natural food sources along rivers and drainages, and human-bear conflicts have been minimal so far. However, a few incidents have occurred:

    • Sleeping Child Creek: An injured, emaciated black bear was euthanized at a residence by FWP.
    • Bear-Dog Encounter: A bear (species unknown) was pursued by dogs. The bear pursued the dogs, and the owner shot and wounded it. FWP was unable to locate the bear.
    • Florence and Woodchuck Drainage: Multiple sightings of bears actively feeding on berries.
    • Slate Creek Campground: A black bear accessed hot dogs in a camp. All food must be secured in bear-resistant containers or hard-sided vehicles.

    Important Reminders:

    • Pick domestic fruit to prevent attracting bears to homesites.
    • Use electric fencing to protect fruit trees.
    • Secure garbage using bear-resistant cans/dumpsters (available via Bitterroot Disposal).
    • Store food properly when camping—use bear-resistant coolers, vehicles, or hang food in trees.
    • Follow all food storage regulations when in bear country. More Info on Bear Food Orders

    For electric fence incentives, contact FWP Region 2. Report bear sightings/incidents and learn how to help at Bitterroot Bears.

    Mountain Lion:  Lion activity and reports of cached prey species are commonly reported along the river bottoms and foothills where deer and elk are present. Feeding or salting for wildlife is illegal and can attract mountain lions. Electric fencing is also effective in protecting small livestock from lions.

    BLACKFOOT AND CEARWATER VALLEYS

    Grizzly Bear:  Grizzly bears are active across the Blackfoot and Clearwater drainages, particularly around Ovando, Helmville, Lincoln, and Seeley Lake. Bears are feeding on abundant huckleberries, serviceberries, chokecherries, alfalfa, and caraway.

    Recent Activity Highlights:

    • Seeley Lake Area: Multiple grizzly bears photographed on game cameras—most feeding naturally or passing through.
    • Rainy Lake: A grizzly bear damaged a door and entered a cabin, likely the same bear involved in cabin and home break-ins in the Swan Valley. FWP Region 1 is currently trapping for this bear.
    • Nevada Creek (Hwy 141): Several grizzly bears photographed feeding on caraway and berries.
    • Aunt Molly WMA: Grizzly bears observed by bowhunters and river users feeding near the Hwy 141 bridge.
    • Helmville Area: Grizzly bear observed feeding on a dead cow (natural death confirmed by Wildlife Services).
    • Lincoln Area: A female grizzly bear with yearlings killed a sheep. Incident verified by Wildlife Services.
    • Nevada Lake Fire Camp: A grizzly bear feeding on chokecherries was captured on video. FWP is working closely with the base camp manager to contain all attractants.
    • Monture Creek: A fisherman had a close encounter with a grizzly in early August.

    Safety & Prevention Tips:

    • Carry bear spray and know how to use it—especially while bowhunting, fishing, or hiking in grizzly country.
    • Use bear-resistant electric fencing for chickens, bees, and small livestock. Fences should remain on year-round when possible.
    • Secure attractants including pet food, garbage, feed, and compost.

    For more information or to report bear conflicts, contact FWP Region 2.

    Mountain Lion: Lions are common in the area. A lion was reported near homesites on the Double Arrow Ranch. Feeding or salting for big game is illegal. Electric fencing is recommended for protecting chickens.

    DRUMMOND, HALL & MAXVILLE

    Grizzly Bear:  FWP has verified reports of grizzly bear activity throughout the foothills of the Garnet Mountain Range. Grizzly bears continue to recolonize this area.

    Black Bear:  Black bears are active in the surrounding mountains and along the riparian corridors. In years past black bears have entered Drummond and other communities for domestic fruit. Picking and removing fruit will alleviate any issues from occurring. Electric fencing is effective for protecting fruit trees.

    Mountain Lion:  Lions remain commonly seen throughout these areas.

    EAST MISSOULA, MILLTOWN & BONNER

    Grizzly Bear:  FWP continues to receive reports of grizzly bear activity in the Missoula North Hills and Rattlesnake Wilderness. Carry bear spray and stay alert—grizzly bear activity is increasing over time.

    Black Bear:  Black bears are being observed feeding on berries throughout the area. Bear conflicts have been minimal, but residents are encouraged to remain diligent in securing attractants. A black bear did access uncontained garbage at a residence in East Missoula. Fall may bring increased activity—don’t let your guard down. This area has a history of bear issues due to unsecured garbage. Bear-resistant cans are available from Republic Services and Grizzly Disposal. For info on electric fence incentives or neighborhood bear awareness programs, contact FWP.

    Some of these areas are part of Phase 3 of the Missoula Bear Buffer Zone, with bear-resistant can rollout starting April 2026. Residents are encouraged to request cans from their waste providers now. Visit the Bear Smart Missoula website for details on the buffer zone and garbage ordinance.

    Mountain Lion:  Lions remain commonly seen throughout these areas.

    EVARO HILL

    Grizzly Bear:  Verified reports confirm grizzly bear activity in the area. Grizzly bears are slowly recolonizing the area, becoming more common in recent years.

    Black Bear:  Black bears have been observed but no conflicts have been reported. Always be prepared for bears, even when bears are behaving—secure attractants and protect livestock with electric fencing. Bear-resistant cans are available from Republic Services and Grizzly Disposal. Contact FWP for info on electric fencing, bear awareness programs, or neighborhood efforts.

    Mountain Lion:  Lions remain commonly seen throughout these areas.

    GOLD CREEK, GARRISON JUNCTION, LITTLE BLACKFOOT VALLEY & DEER LODGE VALLEY

    Grizzly Bear:  Grizzly bear sightings are increasing in the Garrison Junction and Deer Lodge Valley areas, likely due to proximity to the Blackfoot Valley.

    Recent Reports:

    • Garrison Junction: Multiple confirmed sightings and photos of grizzly bears.
    • Rock Creek Cattle Company golf course: A grizzly bear has been frequently observed on the golf course.
    • Independence Gulch: A grizzly bear was killed after being struck by a train west of Garrison Junction.
    • Gold Creek: A grizzly bear was seen feeding on chokecherries near the community of Gold Creek.
    • Deer Lodge Valley foothills: Additional grizzly bear activity reported.

    Important Reminders:

    • Grizzly bears are expanding their range—residents and landowners should stay alert and be proactive.
    • Secure all attractants:
      • Garbage
      • Livestock feed
      • Pet food
      • Compost
      • Fruit trees
    • Use electric fencing to protect livestock and orchards.
    • Always carry bear spray and know how to use it, especially when recreating outdoors.

    To report sightings or conflicts, contact FWP.

    Black Bear:  While no black bear conflicts have been reported at this time, bears are actively feeding on abundant berry crops throughout the area. Now is the time to be proactive in preventing future conflicts. Please contain all attractants and contain all vulnerable livestock behind an electric fence and encourage local sanitation providers to offer bear-resistant cans. Secure attractants and protect livestock with electric fencing. Contact FWP for info on electric fencing, bear awareness programs, or neighborhood efforts.

    Mountain Lion:  Lions remain commonly seen throughout these areas.

    GRANT CREEK & BUTLER CREEK

    Grizzly Bear:  Grizzly bear activity has been reported in Upper Grant and Butler Creeks. Hikers, bikers, and runners should carry bear spray, know how to use it, and pay attention while on trails.

    Black Bear:  Multiple black bears have been seen feeding on natural foods. A female with cubs did access garbage at a residence in upper Grant Creek. Conflicts with black bears have been minimal in the last two years. FWP attributes the decline to placement of bear-resistant garbage cans (Missoula Valley ordinance Phase 1) and Friends of Grant Creek’s outreach. All residents and businesses in this area are required to have all garbage contained. For info on electric fence incentives, bear safety, or neighborhood programs, contact FWP or visit Bear Smart Missoula for information on the Bear Buffer Zone and the Missoula Garbage Regulations.

    Mountain Lion:  Mountain lion activity is common throughout Grant Creek.

    LOLO

    Black Bear:  Black bears have been observed feeding on berries locally. There have been no reported conflicts. In years past black bears have entered Lolo for domestic fruit. Picking and removing fruit will alleviate any issues from occurring. Electric fencing is effective for protecting fruit trees. This area has a history of chronic human-bear conflicts around attractants like garbage and bird feeders. Please secure all attractants. Bear-resistant garbage bins are available via Republic Services and Grizzly Disposal. If you are seeking information on electric fence incentive programs, information on bears, or opportunities for getting involved with bear awareness neighborhood efforts contact FWP.

    Mountain Lion:  No recent reports, but mountain lions are common throughout Lolo Creek.

    MILLER CREEK

    Grizzly Bear: Grizzly bear activity has been verified just over the divide in Rock Creek.

    Black Bear:  Lots of bears being observed feeding on berries. No recent conflicts. Remain diligent, secure all attractants, bring in bird feeders, and pick fruit. Bear-resistant bins are available; this area is within the Missoula Bear Buffer Zone and is scheduled for bear-resistant can placement starting in April 2026. Residents are encouraged to reach out to their local garbage companies for bear-resistant garbage cans prior to this date. Visit the Bear Smart Missoula website for information on the Bear Buffer Zone and the Missoula Garbage Ordinance.

    Mountain Lion:  Lions are common throughout Miller Creek. Mountain lions can be attracted to chickens and small livestock. Electric fencing is an effective way to protect chickens and small livestock. For bear safety, electric fence incentives, or neighborhood programs, contact FWP or visit Bear Smart Missoula.

    MISSOULA

    Grizzly Bear:  Grizzly bears are increasingly active in wild areas around the Missoula Valley. Pay attention, carry bear spray, and know how to use it when recreating on trails around Missoula.

    Black Bear:  Bears have been observed along the urban fringes and riparian areas feeding on berries. A black bear recently moved into the Rattlesnake residential area and is seeking apples. A black bear was observed at Fort Missoula, and another bear was observed in the Orchard homes area. These bears were most likely in the area to feed on chokecherries. Reduced conflicts are likely due to natural food availability, bear-resistant bins (Phase 1 of the Missoula garbage ordinance), and local outreach. Hikers and bikers are seeing bears feeding on berries—carry bear spray and leash dogs. FWP expects more bear activity as hawthorn and domestic fruit trees ripen.

    Bear Buffer Zone: The Rattlesnake is within the bear buffer zone and new regulations began during Phase 1, April 2024. Phase 2 (including the University District and South Hills) began April 30 and the rest of Missoula within Phase 3 buffer zone joins in 2026. All garbage must be bear-resistant.

    Mountain Lion:  Lions are common in the Missoula Valley, especially where deer are present. Mountain lions occasionally pass through town. Often near river or creek bottoms and may become disoriented. Report sightings in residential or business areas to FWP.

    For more info or to get involved, visit Bear Smart Missoula or the Missoula Bears Community Resources page.

    FRENCHTOWN & GRASS VALLEY

    Black Bear:  No recent reports of bears accessing residential attractants, but bears have been seen feeding on berries and other natural foods. Secure all attractants and livestock. Bear-resistant bins are available via Republic Services and Grizzly Disposal. Electric fencing is an effective way to protect chickens and small livestock.

    Mountain Lion:  Lions are common along the Clark Fork River and foothills.

    POTOMAC & GREENOUGH

    Grizzly Bear:  Grizzly bears have become common in the area. A lone grizzly has been actively seeking out unsecured chicken coops and chicken feed. The same bear has tipped over multiple bear-resistant cans and dumpsters and may have accessed garbage from a few receptacles that were not locked correctly. Chickens, turkeys, ducks, other fowl, small livestock, and livestock feed are a major draw to bears. Use electric fencing for securing chickens and small livestock. Store livestock feed and pet food in a closed building or metal container with locking lid. Technical and financial resources are available to help with electric fence installation. For more information contact FWP.

    Black Bear:  Black bears are active and feeding on natural foods. Garbage-related conflicts have declined since bear-resistant bins were placed in September throughout the Potomac Valley bear mitigation area. As of September 1, 2024, all garbage must be stored in a bear-resistant manner—even for homes without garbage service. For details on bear safety and county garbage regulations, visit Bear Smart Missoula.

    Mountain Lion:  Lions remain commonly seen throughout these areas.

    SUPERIOR, ST. REGIS & LOWER CLARK FORM DRAINAGE

    Black Bear:  No recent reports of conflicts with black bears, but attractants remain an issue in Mineral County. Secure garbage and use electric fencing for chickens and small livestock. Bear-resistant cans are available via Republic Services. For electric fence assistance or to address attractants in Superior, St. Regis, Haugan, Saltese, or De Borgia, contact FWP R2 and visit the IGBC Bear Smart Communities website.

    Mountain Lion:  Mountain lions are common in areas with deer and elk. Use electric fencing for small livestock. See FWP’s electric fence guide for more info.

    TURAH, CLINTON, ROCK CREEK & BEAVERTAIL HILL

    Grizzly Bear:  There have been no reports of grizzly bears this summer but are increasingly common in these areas. Secure all attractants. Bear-resistant cans are available at no extra cost through Republic Services (Missoula County) or for a small fee via Grizzly Disposal.

    Black Bear:  FWP has received multiple sightings of black bears feeding on natural foods. Past issues with attractants in Clinton and Turah persist. Use bear-resistant cans or store garbage indoors. Contact FWP R2 for electric fence assistance and/or if you are interested in helping with bear smart community efforts or potential expansion bear smart regulations contact FWP R2 and check out the IGBC Bear Smart Communities site for more info.

    Mountain Lion:  Lions are common in areas with deer and elk. Feeding or salting deer is illegal and attracts lions.

     

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