BILLINGS – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has received an increased number of black bear reports in and around Billings this year. Community help in attractant storage is essential to ensure bears do not become food conditioned in town.  

The reports have predominantly been in areas close to the Yellowstone River or the outskirts of Billings. Though many Billings area residents have never experienced black bears near their properties, bears are relatively common in the area. The Yellowstone River corridor is a natural wildlife pathway and, as urban development expands in the valley, so does the overlap of bears and humans.  

The increase in town bear sightings is likely due to the shortage of natural foods this year—a phenomenon observed throughout much of the Rocky Mountain West. Natural bear foods such as chokecherries are extremely limited this year so bears are seeking alternative foods anywhere they can find them, including in town. With fall approaching, bears will enter hyperphagia, a period of intense eating to pack on fat for winter hibernation. Conflicts could increase in the fall as bears become more desperate in their search for food.  

Follow these protocols for proper attractant storage to keep both people and bears safe:   

• Store garbage bins inside secured building  

• Put garbage outside only on collection day  

• Avoid using bird feeders from March 1 to Dec. 15  

• Clean barbeque grills and outdoor eating areas after use  

• Store pet and livestock feed inside secured building  

• Haze bears away from your property with loud noises, paintball guns or bear spray  

To report a bear sighting or conflict, contact the Billings FWP office at 406-247-2940.   

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