Learn what to do in bear encounters, practice using bear spray
Montana is bear country, including southeast Montana. To help the public become more informed, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Region 7 will host a Bear Aware talk on Monday, Aug. 3 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the Miles City FWP regional headquarters.
There are black bears concentrated in areas of Region 7, but bears can be anywhere there is adequate food and habitat. Bears prefer forested habitats, but they range in search of food, territory and mates. Every year, Region 7 receives some reports of black bears near residential areas, livestock or crops. Most reports end without incident and aren't cause for alarm, so often people don't hear about them.
But the appearance of a young black bear inside Miles City limits this spring and a handful of bear sightings in other communities are reminders that bears are always present, even if we rarely see them, and we may see them more often.
Over the past few years, observations of black bears in the region have increased, prompting a small increase in hunting license quotas in southeast Montana.
The Bear Aware talk in August will cover bear populations and activity in the region, FWP research efforts, bear biology and behavior, differences between black bears and grizzly bears, what attracts bears, conflict prevention, how to handle encounters, and agency response. Speakers will include FWP education, wildlife and enforcement staff. The evening will feature a demonstration of a bear trap, information on electric fencing and other deterrents, and training on how to use bear spray for those interested (must be 10 or older).
The mere presence of a bear needn't be cause for alarm. They are generally reclusive animals and prefer to avoid contact with humans. Most bear activity in inhabited areas involves an attractant of some kind. FWP's aim is to educate people that they can play a huge role in preventing encounters and keeping bears wild by removing or managing such attractants.
If you encounter a bear, remember the following:
- Never run away. You cannot outrun a bear. Running may trigger a bear to chase.
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
- Never approach the bear.
- If you see a bear at a distance, the bear appears unaware of you and you can move away undetected, do so quietly when the bear is not looking toward you.
- If you cannot avoid a bear that sees you, stand your ground and watch its behavior. Move away when it disengages.
Many of these topics will be addressed at the Bear Aware Talk in August. All are welcome at this free event, but content is intended for adults.
For extensive information on being Bear Aware in Montana, visit: