Bill Barrett shared video of three grizzly bears that have been hanging around the Polson area.
The bears visited the family's yard last week while roaming the east shore of Flathead Lake. The family said the bears passed through without any issues.
The grizzlies have been spotted numerous times heading north, and wildlife officials are monitoring their movements.
Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes Wildlife Management Program posted about the bears on Facebook: "These three have been traveling down the east side of Flathead Lake and have been seen periodically with reports coming to FWP as well as CSKT. We are asking residents who encounter these three, or other bears in their yards, to make the encounter uncomfortable for them. We know they are amazing animals and watching them is a treat, but if they are feeling safe and comfortable around people and homes this will eventually lead to a negative situation some where down the line!"
The also provided safety tips to follow if you encounter bears (grizzly or black):
- Stay Calm – If the bear finds no food, it will usually leave.
- Stay Away – bears may attack when they feel threatened.
- Warn Others – Bring kids and pets indoors. Remind others to keep their distance.
- Scare that Bear – Make sure the bear has a clear escape path.
- MAKE LOTS OF NOISE: yell, clap, bang pots, use a wildlife deterrent horn, or turn on lights. Don’t let the bear become comfortable around your home.
- DON'T PHYSICALLY CHASE THE BEAR all these suggestions are at a safe distance!!!
For more information on grizzly bears, bear resistant containers, and food storage guidelines visit the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee website .
