GREAT FALLS — Montana wildlife officials say an elk hunter was mauled by a female grizzly bear that was protecting her two cubs.
Fish, Wildlife and Parks Warden Capt. Dave Holland tells the Great Falls Tribune the man was seriously injured in the attack at about 9 a.m. Sunday on private property near Choteau. The injured man was taken by private vehicle to the clinic in Choteau and then flown by helicopter to Benefis Health System in Great Falls. His name, age and hometown have not been released.
Holland says an initial investigation indicates it was a surprise encounter, with the bear defending her cubs.
The man did not fire any shots at the bear, which ran off after the attack.
State officials plan to visit the site on Monday.