Federal and state officials investigate illegal grizzly bear killing

Officials with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and game wardens with Montana, Fish, Wildlife and Parks are investigating the illegal killing of a grizzly bear near the Yaak.

Authorities found the carcass of an adult female grizzly bear Nov. 20 about four miles south of the Yaak on Pipe Creek Road, according to Dillon Tabish, regional informational and education program manager for FWP Region 1.

Tabish said some parts of the bear were missing. He could not provide additional details, citing the ongoing investigation.

“We are encouraging anyone with possible information to call our hotline,” Tabish said.

Residents with tips may call 1-800-847-6668. Tabish said callers will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a financial reward depending on their information.

Grizzly bears are federally protected as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. It is illegal to harm, harass or kill these bears, except in cases of self-defense or the defense of others.