RED LODGE, Mont. — A black bear mauled and injured a 3-year-old girl in a tent at a private campground in Montana just north of Yellowstone National Park over the weekend, state wildlife officials said.
The girl was attacked at about 10 p.m. Sunday at a campground south of Red Lodge and taken to the hospital in Billings. Fish, Wildlife and Parks didn’t have any information on her condition on Tuesday, game warden Randy Hutzenbiler said.
The campground was evacuated and traps were placed in the area. A bear believed to have been involved was captured and euthanized on Monday afternoon, Hutzenbiler said. The wildlife agency still has traps in the area.
“There were attractants in the area,” Hutzenbiler said, which can include food and unsecured garbage.
The wildlife agency recommends keeping food, garbage and anything with a scent out of tents and stored in bear-resistant containers or vehicles.
A 3-year-old girl was recently attacked by a black bear while camping at a campground in Montana. The incident has sparked concerns about wildlife safety and the importance of taking precautions when camping in bear country.
The attack occurred in the early morning hours when the young girl was sleeping in a tent with her family. The bear reportedly entered the tent and bit the girl on the arm before being scared off by her parents. The girl was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment and is expected to make a full recovery.
This incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of camping in areas where bears are present. Black bears are common in many parts of North America, including Montana, and can be attracted to campsites by food, garbage, or other scents. It is important for campers to take precautions to minimize the risk of bear encounters.
One of the most important things campers can do to prevent bear attacks is to properly store food and garbage. Bears have a keen sense of smell and will be attracted to any food or scented items left out in the open. Campers should store all food and garbage in bear-proof containers or hang it from a tree at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet away from the trunk.
In addition to proper food storage, campers should also be aware of their surroundings and make noise while hiking or walking through bear country. Bears are more likely to avoid humans if they are aware of their presence. It is also a good idea to carry bear spray and know how to use it in case of an encounter.
While bear attacks are rare, they can be dangerous and even fatal. It is important for campers to take precautions and be prepared for any potential encounters with wildlife. By following these safety tips, campers can enjoy their time in nature while minimizing the risk of bear encounters.
