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Hunter shoots, injures grizzly near Fairfield – Daily Montanan [1]

['Daily Montanan Staff', 'More From Author', '- September']

Date: 2023-09-13  

A hunter shot and injured a grizzly bear near Fairfield in the Freezeout Lake Wildlife Management Area on Tuesday. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is still looking for the bear.

According to a FWP press release Wednesday, the hunter was hunting for upland birds on private lands when he was charged by the grizzly, believed to be an adult male. Less than 15 feet away from the bear, the hunter fired twice with his shotgun and hit the grizzly once, causing it to run away. The hunter was not injured.

As part of the open investigation, FWP bear management and law enforcement conducted a search Tuesday and Wednesday, on foot, using drones and with a helicopter, covering more than four square miles. They were not able to find the bear, but did find evidence it was wounded and believe it left the immediate area.

FWP said the bear is likely seeking cover in and around abandoned buildings and in areas with thick brush, warning nearby residents to be cautious. The department is also putting signs up in the area advising hunters to be vigilant for bears.

“With pheasant hunting season approaching and other upland bird seasons already open, FWP reminds all hunters to be extra cautious when afield,” the release said.

This bear encounter happened in the same week a hunter was attacked near Big Sky on Friday. FWP concluded their investigation into the altercation, saying in a press release Wednesday one of the victim’s companions fired a pistol at the bear before the bear left. The victim suffered serious injuries from the bear and was flown to a hospital. Custer Gallatin National Forest implemented an emergency area closure for public safety following the incident and the closure remains in effect.

FWP staff did not find the bear, but found evidence of bear activity in the area.

Bears are active longer this time of year as they eat in preparation for hibernation. However, this period overlaps with hunting season and other fall recreation activities when folks are more likely to encounter bears.

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[1] Url: https://dailymontanan.com/2023/09/13/hunter-shoots-injures-grizzly-near-fairfield/

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