Glacier National Park officials killed a black bear last week after the animal tried to enter vehicles and buildings near West Glacier.  

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks relocated the bear from Kalispell to Puzzle Creek south of Marias Pass in 2022. While the relocation initially appeared successful, officials said they noticed the bear escalating efforts to obtain human food at the beginning of June. The animal was euthanized on June 5. 

A June 10 press release issued by the park described the 4-year-old female black bear as aggressive and food-conditioned.   

In a separate incident on June 7, Going-to-the-Sun Road was temporary closed after a female black bear with a young cub managed to snag a snack from a visitor’s unattended backpack.  

“Wildlife rangers are attempting to discourage the bears’ bad behavior,” officials said in a press release. “If unsuccessful, the bears may have to be relocated or euthanized per the park’s bear management guidelines.” 

About 600 black bears and 300 grizzlies roam the forests and mountains of Glacier National Park. Violent encounters are rare — the park has recorded seven attacks in the past 25 years, none of them fatal — but the proximity of bears and park visitors remains a concern. In recent years, officials have euthanized several black bears and one female grizzly bear due to concerns about food-conditioning. 

As the park ramps up for the summer season, visitors are reminded to take appropriate precautions when recreating in bear country. Keep campsites clean and never leave unsecured food or garbage unattended. In the case of a bear sighting, maintain a safe distance of at least 100 yards. If the animal shows signs of agitation, leave the area by backing away slowly. Report all bear sightings to park rangers.  

More information on best practices for bear safety is available at nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/bears.

Reporter Hailey Smalley may be reached at 758-4433 or [email protected].