Be aware of animal visitors

Bigfork has had visitors of a different variety than its usual tourists over the course of the past few weeks.

Sightings have abounded of bears and a mountain lion in the Village and surrounding areas recently, which makes it important for residents to be aware and know what actions to take when confronted with these animals.

Each encounter can be different, but Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks officials urge residents to carry bear pepper spray when recreating outdoors, including when on the Swan River Nature Trail, as one resident found out this month. This spray can also be effective on mountain lions. Residents can take precautions in their yards and around their homes as well to avoid attracting these animals. This can include removing bird feeders, containing trash and keeping pets inside during dawn and dusk hours.Animals that appear aggressive or are in a residential area should be reported to FWP so game wardens can track the animals and take action as needed.

Find out more about Bigfork's latest animal encounters and what to do if you end up in one by reading stories this week on A1 and A3.

—Jasmine Linabary