Bozeman Bear Euthanasia
Montana wildlife officials euthanize 14 food-conditioned bears found near Bozeman home.
Anonymous
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks captured and euthanized 14 black bears at a home north of Bozeman after investigators found the animals had become heavily food-conditioned and unafraid of people, posing a safety risk. Officials say bears habituated to human food generally cannot be rehabilitated or successfully relocated, making euthanasia a last resort; one cub was taken to a state facility while officials consider possible placement at an accredited zoo. The investigation into alleged intentional feeding is ongoing, and state law allows fines, jail time, or both for illegally feeding game animals. Residents have also reported unusually frequent bear activity around Bozeman this year.
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Montana law can also suspend hunting and fishing privileges for someone convicted of illegally feeding game animals, in addition to fines or jail time.
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Investigators found the bears on the property on Sept. 24 and 25, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
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FWP advises residents to secure attractants such as garbage, bird feeders and pet food; it also offers guidance on bear-resistant bins, electric fencing and bear spray, and asks people to contact the agency if a bear is trying to access attractants near homes, vehicles or businesses.
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