Bear Attacks Hunter South of Augusta

GREAT FALLS - Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is investigating a bear attack on a hunter on state-owned land near Elk Creek and Haystack Butte south of Augusta.

The victim was archery hunting on the morning of Sept. 14 when he encountered the bear and was attacked, sustaining significant but fortunately not life-threatening injuries. The hunter drove himself home after the attack and was transported to Benefis Hospital by private vehicle for treatment.

FWP’s priority is human safety, and game wardens and bear management specialists are continuing their investigation and posting signs in the area to notify the public of bear activity.

The species of the bear involved is currently unknown, and the incident remains under investigation. No further details are available at this time.

Montana is bear country, and hunters can help stay safe when afield by following these safety tips:

• Pack meat out as soon as possible.
• Avoid cutting up carcass at dusk or night. If you kill an animal at dusk, be prepared to cut up the carcass in the dark by carrying strong headlamps. Be extra vigilant and watch for bears.
• Properly hang meat until you can retrieve your downed game.
• If you must leave your animal, return to the site carefully. Leave it in an area that is easily observable from a distance.
• Drag gut piles into open areas, if possible, and at least 100 yards from your carcass as soon as possible.
• If a bear has claimed your animal, do not attempt to haze or frighten the bear away. Report any lost game to FWP.
• Bird hunters should be extra careful while walking in and along areas of brush, especially along waterways. Grizzly bears use thick cover for day beds. Walk with the wind, carry bear spray, and keep a close eye on hunting dogs. If there is abundant fresh sign of grizzly bears in the area, consider bird hunting somewhere else.
• Download: How to Hunt Safely in Grizzly Bear Country (PDF)