Wildlife in Montana: Bears and Mountain Lions Moving Toward Towns
Helena, MT — Dry conditions and a scarcity of food in mountainous regions are causing bears and mountain lions to venture closer to urban areas in Montana. Wildlife officials are urging residents, especially pet owners, to take precautions.
Precautions for Pet Owners
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Keep Pets Inside Overnight: While generally safe, it’s best to watch pets closely, especially in wooded areas.
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Limit Attractants:
- Dispose of trash properly.
- Bring pet food inside.
- Hang bird feeders high to minimize access.
Courtesy: Evan Charney, MTN News
Wildlife Activity
Wildlife is most active during dawn and dusk. Pet owners should be particularly alert during these times. For those hiking with pets, it’s recommended to carry bear spray and make noise to alert wildlife.
Sean McCarthy, an urban wildlife officer in Helena, emphasizes the importance of minimizing attractants:
“Just limit that want for those animals to be in this area… As long as they’re coming through at night and moving back into the woods, that’s what we really want.”
Conclusion
Reducing easy access to food sources is crucial for the safety of both wildlife and pets. Pet owners are advised to stay vigilant to protect their animals and cohabitants with the local wildlife.
