Two Montana grizzly encounters leave hunters injured
BOZEMAN — State wildlife officials say two hunters were hospitalized after encountering grizzly bears in separate incidents over the weekend in southwestern Montana.
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks says in a news release that a bow hunter looking for elk was mauled by a bear on Sunday in the Tom Miner Basin north of Gardiner. The man had bite injuries, but was taken to a hospital and released.
Private forest retreat home to grizzlies, wolves, one lucky family
Another hunter encountered a bear Saturday after calling for elk in the Cabin Creek area north of Hebgen Lake. He was treated at a hospital for minor injuries and released.
Wildlife officials say elk bugling or cow calling can bring in bears and bears may be drawn to areas where deer or elk have been.
Officials are encouraging hunters to carry bear spray and hunt in groups.