Kalispell, MT — Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has new information about a bear attack that occurred in a remote section of the Cabinet Mountains south of Libby.
On the morning of May 17, an adult woman sustained serious injuries in a surprise defensive encounter involving a bear. The incident occurred in the Poorman Creek area.
The victim reported the incident at approximately 11 a.m. She was transported via ambulance to an area along U.S. Highway 2 where ALERT Air Ambulance arrived and transported her to Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
The victim is a field assistant working on a U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service grizzly bear project.
The type of bear involved in the conflict remains unknown at this time. Trace evidence collected at the scene is being submitted for analysis.
The FWP Region 1 Wildlife Human Attack Response Team was dispatched to the area immediately upon notification. The investigation remains ongoing.
Northwest Montana is bear country with abundant populations of grizzlies and black bears. Bears are active in springtime and residents are asked to please secure attractants around their properties. Recreationists are urged to be “Bear Aware” and follow precautionary steps and tips to prevent conflicts.
General tips to stay safe in bear country:
Carry and know how to use bear pepper spray for emergencies.
Travel in groups of three or more people whenever possible and plan to be out in the daylight hours.
Watch for signs of bears such as bear scat, diggings, torn-up logs and turned over rocks, and partly consumed animal carcasses.
Make your presence known by talking, singing, carrying a bell, or other means, especially when near streams or in thick forest where visibility is low. This can