Information sought on grizzly bear shootings
Two bears found near St. Ignatius and in Moiese Valley
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FLATHEAD INDIAN RESERVATION – The Confederated Salish Kootenai Tribes and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are seeking information on the shooting of a female grizzly bear in the Moiese Valley that occurred on or about Oct. 12. The bear was found shot to death in a field near Moiese Valley Road and Kuntz Lane.
On Oct. 19, wildlife officials were notified of another injured grizzly bear with a large wound on its face north St. Ignatius in the area of Lemery and Watson roads. The female grizzly was located, captured and later euthanized due to the extent of her injuries. The carcass was transported to the Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks lab in Bozeman where examination revealed the sow had been shot in the face at close range with birdshot.
Both female grizzlies were lactating at the time of death and may have had cubs of the year or yearlings.
The CSKT and the Service are asking for anyone that may have heard or seen anything related to either of these cases to call Tribal Dispatch at 406-675-2700 or the Service Special Agent at 406-329-3000. Callers do not have to identify themselves and a reward of up to $3,000 is available for information leading to an arrest and conviction.
