Montana’s Whitefish Lake is known for its beautiful scenery and trout fishing. But as three men were reminded on Saturday, humans aren’t the only ones who go there looking for a meal.
As they made their way down an old logging road, the men smelled something decomposing. Their dog broke away to investigate, and shortly after came across a grizzly bear. According to John Fraley, spokesman for Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, the dog “ran back toward the men with the bear on its tail.” After the men started yelling in an attempt to scare it off, the grizzly turned and charged one of them. Fortunately, his companion had a high-powered rifle, and was able to stop the bear about 10 feet from the group.
The men contacted authorities, and game wardens were dispatched to investigate. They estimated the dead bear weighed about 500 pounds, and discovered the elk carcass he was likely defending nearby.