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HAPPY BEAR AWARE MONTH!
Celebrate Bear Aware Month at one of FWP’s events, drop off old cans of bear spray at FWP offices
In 2023, Gov. Greg Gianforte proclaimed September as Bear Aware Month. FWP continues to honor that proclamation by focusing communication and education efforts during the month of September on making Montana residents, visitors and communities more bear aware.
As part of Bear Aware Month, FWP regional offices will take old bear spray cans throughout September. Expired or partially used bear spray canisters aren’t safe to simply toss in the trash, and over time many Montanans end up with a box full of old cans gathering dust.
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BE BEAR SPRAY AWARE
Research shows that it is highly effective
Bear spray is an excellent tool used to deter bears in close encounters. According to research, it’s about 92 percent effective at changing bear behavior.
As is true with any tool, bear spray has benefits and disadvantages. You should know how to use and carry bear spray. Bear spray, or any self-defense tool, is only helpful if it is accessible. Consider how you’ll be recreating or working and choose a holster or carry style that works well for you. There’s no wrong way to carry bear spray if you can access it quickly. As a challenge-try to grab it in under three seconds.
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WATCH: Five Important tips when using bear spray
Before you head out, here are five important tips to remember when using bear spray.
Bonus Video:
Region 3 Grizzly Bear Specialist Jeremiah Smith gives a seasonal update
Berry crops have had mixed success in southwestern Montana, but bears are using a variety of available food sources. This is the time of year when bears begin their preparation for hibernation, and it's an especially important time to keep attractants such as garbage, bird feeders and pet food secured. Keeping attractants out of reach of bears goes a long way toward preventing conflicts, improving human safety and encouraging healthy bear behavior.
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Expert advice
FWP bear specialists discuss common misconceptions about bears
With Bear Aware Month beginning Sept. 1, we want to remind folks of some common myths about grizzly and black bears. The following is from a discussion between Danielle Oyler, FWP’s wildlife stewardship outreach specialist, and Jamie Jonkel , FWP’s bear management specialist.
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Cool tools
Stay informed through FWP’s online bear dashboards
September is Bear Aware month in Montana, and FWP has a few tools to help you stay informed of what’s happening with bears around the state.
FWP has three grizzly bear dashboards:
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Bear necessities
Tips for staying safe in bear country
Stay safe while hunting and fishing in bear country. Be prepared and be aware. Always carry bear spray and have it accessible.
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Wanted: Game Warden Applicants
FWP is seeking applicants for several game warden positions. This position closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 20. You must apply through the State of Montana Career site.
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Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
1420 East Sixth Avenue, P.O. Box 200701
Helena, MT 59620-0701
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