Grizzlies Still out on Front

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 Perhaps reading the calendar, some grizzly bears on the Rocky Mountain Front have started their long winter sleep, but many more are still out and about, prompting a warning from a state wildlife official.

"Hunters need to be aware that some grizzlies are still out and may not be into their winter dens for several more weeks," says Mike Madel, Fish, Wildlife and Parks bear management specialist.

Madel flew over the Front last week checking the whereabouts of several radio-collared bears. He said he discovered five females were either already in their winter dens or nearby.

But Madel added he’s aware of several male bears that are still out, some of which have claimed hunter-killed game.

"Those bears are still out looking for food before they go to sleep for the winter," Madel said.

FWP reminds hunters to be bear aware when in the out of doors:

· Always carry bear pepper spray, have it close at hand and know how to use it.

· If you are going to be alone in bear country, let someone know your detailed plans; better yet, don’t go alone.

· While hunting, pay attention to fresh bear sign.

· After making a kill, get the carcass out of the area as quickly as possible.

· When field dressing the carcass, keep your can of bear pepper spray within easy reach.

· Use special precautions if you must leave and then return to a carcass, including placing the carcass where you can easily observe it from a distance when you return.

· Do not attempt to frighten away or haze a bear that is nearby or feeding on a carcass

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