Hunters shoot charging grizzly

Hunters shot a charging grizzly bear in Lewis and Clark National Forest last week, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

The shooting occurred last Tuesday near the west end of Gibson Reservoir, said Bruce Auchly, an FWP spokesman.

Two hunters surprised the grizzly, which was in a day bed, and it charged, Auchly said.

The bear, shot twice, ran off.

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“They tracked it and put it down,” Auchly said.

The grizzly was an old male about 15 to 20 years old.

A law enforcement official with Lewis and Clark National Forest brought the carcass out of the forest and planned to discuss the case with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as is standard procedure, Auchly said.

The Wildlife Service enforces the Endangered Species Act. Grizzlies are listed as threatened.

The shooting appears to be a legitimate case of self defense, Auchly said.

Most grizzly bears are now hibernating, but a few male bears might still be out, Auchly said.