wildlife

On Tuesday, a Yellowstone National Park wildlife biologist on a radio telemetry flight observed the first grizzly bear of 2023 to emerge from hibernation.

There are 1 million species threatened with extinction in the world; in the United States, 34% of plants and 40% of animals are threatened.

The Montana House defeated some bills that would have allowed more wolf trapping and bear hunting in grizzly bear habitat. But other carnivore bills are moving forward that might affect grizzly delisting.

The responses highlighted some areas of concern, including safety and enforcement; damage from increased camping, especially dispersed camping; protection of wildlife habitat and fishery health; and future expansion.

In recent months, MDT said potential improvements could include improved lighting, reduced speeds and wildlife crossings.

The National Park Service has discretion in how it manages a park where endangered Tule elk live — and how quickly it moves to amend how it manages the creatures.

Opponents said the term “threatening” wasn’t well defined, and the state should put more emphasis on non-lethal management of grizzlies.

A bill in the House Fish, Wildlife and Parks Committee would add penalties for criminal trespassing while collecting antlers, sheds, or horns.

Hundreds gathered at the state capitol to show state politicians that Montanans are watching legislators’ attempts to steal money from a popular public land fund.

More than 800 additional acres are being added to the Mount Haggin Wildlife Management area near Anaconda, giving a lot more elbow room to those who enjoy recreating in the great outdoors.