A section of Red Rock Creek in southern Montana has been temporarily closed to public access after a startling encounter between two anglers and a charging grizzly bear. The incident occurred on the Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, prompting an immediate safety closure of the creek until May 5th, according to a Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) news release.
Wildlife officials reported that the two individuals were fishing along Red Rock Creek when a grizzly bear emerged suddenly from “thick brush” and aggressively charged towards them. In an act of self-defense, one of the anglers discharged a weapon at the bear. Fortunately, neither of the anglers sustained any injuries during the encounter.
Following the incident, the anglers promptly reported the charge to authorities. Wildlife officers were dispatched to the Red Rock Creek area on April 23rd to attempt to locate the bear. However, despite their efforts, the animal was not found, leaving its condition unknown. It remains unclear whether the bear was injured by the gunshot.
The temporary closure of Red Rock Creek is a precautionary measure to ensure public safety in the area following the aggressive bear encounter. Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge is situated in the southern part of Montana, close to the Idaho state line.
Grizzly bears in the lower 48 states have been federally listed as a threatened species since 1975 under the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This protected status at both state and federal levels makes it illegal to harm, harass, or kill grizzly bears, except in documented cases of self-defense or the defense of others.
While bear attacks on humans are statistically rare, particularly according to the National Park Service, it’s crucial for individuals in bear country to understand how to minimize the risk of an encounter escalating. Bears typically attack when they perceive a threat to their food sources, their cubs, or their personal space.
The National Park Service provides the following guidelines on how to react if you encounter a bear:
- Identify yourself: Speak calmly and slowly wave your arms to help the bear recognize you as human and non-threatening.
- Stay calm: Bears usually prefer to avoid conflict. Talk to the bear in a slow, low voice.
- Don’t scream: Screaming can potentially trigger an aggressive response.
- Pick up small children: Prevent children from running, as this might trigger a predatory response in the bear.
- Hike in groups: Larger groups are generally noisier and have a stronger scent presence, which bears tend to avoid.
- Make yourself look big: Move to higher ground if possible and stand tall. Avoid sudden movements.
- Don’t drop your bag: A backpack can act as a barrier and may contain food the bear is interested in.
- Walk away slowly: Move sideways to appear less threatening while keeping the bear in sight.
- Never run: Running can provoke a chase, similar to how a dog might react.
- Don’t climb trees: Both grizzly and black bears are capable climbers.
The recent incident on Red Rock Creek serves as a stark reminder of the importance of bear safety awareness for anyone recreating in Montana’s wilderness areas. While the creek remains closed, officials will likely reassess the situation closer to the May 5th reopening date.
Image/Source: eastidahonews
