Montana Wildlife Agency Euthanizes 14 Black Bears Near Bozeman Due to Illegal Feeding
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks euthanized 14 black bears near Bozeman after the animals became food-conditioned and habituated to humans due to illegal feeding. The incident is under investigation, and penalties for intentionally feeding bears can include fines and/or jail…
Missoula, MT, September 29, 2026 —
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) has euthanized 14 black bears in the vicinity of Bozeman. The decision was made after the bears exhibited food conditioning and habituation to humans, behaviors officials attribute to illegal feeding practices.
The agency’s action underscores the risks associated with intentionally providing food to wildlife, which can alter natural behaviors and lead to dangerous encounters. When bears become accustomed to human-provided food sources, they may lose their natural fear of people and begin to associate humans with readily available meals. This can result in an increased likelihood of bears approaching homes, businesses, and recreational areas, creating safety concerns for both the public and the animals.
According to officials, the bears in question had become food-conditioned and habituated to human presence. This behavior, described as dangerous and problematic by wildlife management agencies, often leads to the animals becoming a public safety threat. In such circumstances, euthanasia is frequently considered the most responsible course of action to prevent further risks to human safety and to mitigate the ongoing negative impact on the bear population’s natural behaviors.
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks stated that the incident involving these bears is currently under investigation. The purpose of the investigation is likely to identify the individuals responsible for the illegal feeding that led to the bears’ habituation and subsequent euthanization.
Penalties for intentionally feeding bears in Montana can be significant, potentially including fines and/or jail time. These regulations are in place to protect both human communities and wildlife populations by discouraging practices that disrupt natural ecosystems and lead to negative interactions. The specific fine amounts or jail time sentences in this ongoing investigation were not immediately available.
FWP encourages the public to secure attractants, such as garbage, pet food, and bird feeders, and to never intentionally feed bears or other wildlife. Proper waste management and awareness of wildlife behavior are crucial for coexisting safely in areas where bears are present.
Story summarized from the original created by Cassidy Powers on www.kpax.com, see more information here.