Man hospitalized in bear encounter north of Columbia Falls
Work on grizzly bear research continues in the NCDE.
KALISPELL — A man was hospitalized after an encounter with a grizzly bear on Thursday evening approximately two miles north of Columbia Falls in Flathead County.
A 72-year-old man was alone picking huckleberries on Flathead National Forest lands off the North Fork Road when he reported encountering a bear that charged and attacked him. The individual shot and killed the bear with a handgun.
FWP wardens and bear specialists responded to the incident and confirmed that an adult female grizzly bear was killed. FWP is working to verify if any cubs are present. FWP determined it to be a surprise defensive encounter.
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