KALISPELL—Northwest Montana is experiencing a below average huckleberry crop this year, and as natural food sources become harder for bears to find, they are increasingly moving to lower elevations in search of alternatives. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks bear conflict specialists are asking for the community’s help to reduce potential conflicts.
“We’ve responded to an unusually high number of calls this season,” said bear and lion conflict specialist, Justine Vallieres. As fall approaches and bears enter hyperphagia, a time when they actively seek out extra calories to prepare for winter, specialists expect that call volume to increase.
Securing common attractants such as garbage, bird feeders, and fruit trees, can help prevent conflicts before they arise. Bears are resourceful and highly food‑motivated, but actions like storing garbage in bear‑resistant containers, temporarily removing bird feeders, and protecting fruit trees with electric fencing can greatly reduce the chances of bears lingering in developed areas.
“We really need your help this year,” said Vallieres. “We live in an area with a high density of both black and grizzly bears, and when natural food sources are low, the chance for conflict increases. Being proactive about securing attractants can make a big difference, because even if you haven’t had a bear visit before, there’s always a chance one could pass through.”
Vallieres also encourages anyone experiencing a bear‑related concern to get in touch with FWP as early as possible. “Early calls allow us to respond quickly, help secure attractants, and provide guidance. The sooner we’re aware of a situation, the sooner we can help.”
While huckleberries are scarce in some places, other productive patches remain. In these areas, bears may be especially protective of the food they’ve found. When recreating in bear habitat, follow these safety tips:
- Carry bear spray where it’s easily accessible and know how to use it.
- Stay alert and watch for signs of bear activity, especially in areas with limited visibility.
- Travel in groups and keep members close together.
- Make noise to avoid surprising a bear, especially in dense vegetation or near running water.
- Avoid traveling at night, dawn, or dusk.
- Steer clear of carcass sites or areas with scavenger activity.
For more information, visit FWP Living In Bear Country | Montana FWP.