Black Bear Attacks Three-Year-Old Girl in Montana

A three-year-old girl was hospitalized after being attacked by a black bear while sleeping in a tent at a private campground near Red Lodge, Montana, on August 11. The bear, which had no prior conflict history, was euthanized after being captured the following day; it had likely become food-conditioned due to unsecured food sources found at the site. The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks agency evacuated the campground and set traps for the bear after discovering unsecured attractants, including trash and human food, around the tent. This incident has raised concerns about wildlife interactions and the need for better food storage practices in campgrounds, especially as human activity increases in bear habitats. Officials are urging campers to take necessary precautions to prevent encounters with bears, emphasizing the importance of proper food disposal. The girl's condition has not been detailed, but she is reported to be recovering in a Billings hospital.