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Two Grizzly Bears Killed After Conflicts Near Yellowstone

Montana FWP responded to reports of bears getting into garbage, approaching houses and entering campgrounds

By Associated Press

BOZEMAN — Wildlife officials in Montana have said two grizzly bears were killed this week after entering an occupied tent and an recreational vehicle storage compartment near Yellowstone National Park.

The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks responded to 15 reports of two bears getting into garbage, approaching houses and entering campgrounds, the Bozeman Daily Chronicle reported Friday.

“When garbage and other attractants are left unsecured and available to bears, human safety becomes a huge concern, and bear mortalities are the unfortunate result,” department southwest Montana Regional Supervisor Mark Deleray said.

Department officials said the bears, one male and one female, were previously removed from residential areas last year but resurfaced last month. Experts then captured the animals Aug. 16 for relocation but they returned to the area again Aug. 25.

The department decided to euthanize the bears over concerns for human safety after consulting with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Wildlife officials have urged travelers to store food, garbage and other bear attractants in bear-resistant containers or hung at least 10 feet (3 meters) above ground.