Montana FWP says grizzlies killed 10 cows

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks said Friday that grizzly bears killed 10 cows on a ranch along the Rocky Mountain Front this week. It happened about five miles west of Dupuyer According to a release from FWP, the cattle were in a creek bottom with thick willow cover. Specialists from USDA Wildlife Services said at least 12 grizzly bears were in the area, including sows with cubs. FWP says the number of bears in the area creates a unique challenge, and it would be extremely dangerous to try and capture individual bears. FWP can, however, offer assistance to help protect livestock and reduce other kinds of bear conflicts. The rancher is eligible for compensation from the livestock loss fund. Hunters, ranchers and anyone headed out into bear country is urged to be proactive and take steps to protect themselves. FWP offers tips to be “Bear Aware”. Bears typically become more active this time of year as they try to put on weight for hibernation. Bears move off seasonal sources of food, like berries and chokecherries. Livestock, in turn, becomes more susceptible...more