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Grizzly Bears Wander Farther into Prairie

In June, three bears killed two calves at a ranch 30 miles northeast of Great Falls

By Dillon Tabish

GREAT FALLS — Grizzly bears have been spotted along river drainages up to 35 miles away from the Rocky Mountain Front, and state wildlife officials say prairie residents should take precautions.

The Great Falls Tribune reports the bears are following ripe berry crops that are in river bottoms east of the Front. Grizzlies have been spotted in the Sun, Teton and Marias river drainages, along with Dupuyer and Muddy creeks.

There have been no reports of conflicts with humans. In June, three bears killed two calves at a ranch 30 miles northeast of Great Falls.

Mike Madel of Fish, Wildlife and Parks, says residents, farmers and fishermen should carry bear spray, secure food and be cautious with grain spills around bins.