Idaho grizzly bear shot, killed
There are several useful physical features that will help you tell the difference between grizzly and black bears. In general, none should not be used alone. Color and size are not reliable indicators and should not be used to identify species.
An Idaho grizzly bear was shot and killed this week after being mistaken for a black bear by a Montana hunter near the Canadian border.
Idaho Fish and Game said Friday that the bear was shot and killed Sept. 17 near Smith Creek.
After identifying the bear as a grizzly, the hunter contacted Fish and Game and is cooperating with the investigation, according to a press release.
Grizzly bears are protected under State and Federal law, and Fish and Game reminds hunters that grizzly bears may be encountered in northern Idaho and in the Greater Yellowstone area. Black bear hunters are responsible for proper identification of their target. Fish and Game’s web site provides training to hone hunter’s bear identification skills: https://idfg.idaho.gov/hunt/bear-info/overview.