Grizzly

Grizzly Bear Conservation at a Standstill: Lawsuit Delays Spark Controversy in Montana

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Helena, Montana — A significant legal dispute over grizzly bear conservation in Montana has been complicated by a delay in court proceedings, raising concerns among conservationists and local stakeholders. The case has ignited tensions surrounding wildlife protections in the region, particularly as grizzly populations rebound and state management strategies evolve. The lawsuit involves multiple parties advocating for the protection of grizzly bears under the Endangered Species Act. As populations have increased, some stakeholders support a shift in management policies, suggesting that the bears be removed from the endangered list. However, conservation groups argue that such … Read more

Prominent Wildlife Photographer Fined for Traffic Violation While Protecting Grizzly Bears in Grand Teton

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CHEYENNE, Wyo. — Renowned wildlife photographer Tom Mangelsen faced criticism in a Wyoming federal magistrate’s court after being found guilty of a minor traffic offense last month. During a recent court session conducted via Zoom, Federal Magistrate Mark Carman, despite recognizing Mangelsen’s impressive photographic contributions, advised the 78-year-old to collaborate more closely with the National Park Service to avoid future conflicts. Mangelsen, a prominent figure known for his wildlife photography, was cited for obstructing traffic on October 9 after he reportedly drove slowly in front of Grizzly 610—an injured and well-known bear—on a highway in … Read more

Conservation Groups Fight Against Wolf Trapping in Idaho, Seeking to Protect Endangered Grizzly Bears

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BOISE, Idaho – Conservation groups are taking legal action to protect endangered grizzly bears in Idaho from wolf trapping practices. Thirteen organizations have filed a lawsuit to halt the use of traps and snares for wolves, arguing that such methods could inadvertently harm grizzlies as well. The groups have appealed to a federal judge, requesting a ban on trapping activities during periods when bears are not hibernating. Idaho is home to approximately 80 protected grizzly bears, and conservationists fear that even a single casualty caused by a wolf trap could hinder the species’ recovery efforts. … Read more

Montana Wolf Trapping Season Opens Amidst Lawsuit Concerns for Grizzly Bear Safety

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HELENA, Montana – Wolf trapping season began on January 1 in several valleys across Montana, following a delay due to concerns for the safety of grizzly bears. Trappers in the Clearwater, Swan, and Blackfoot Valleys have already started setting snares and traps. The season was initially halted by a lawsuit filed by environmental groups, arguing that the traps inadvertently ensnare federally-protected grizzly bears. However, the lawsuit only resulted in a suspension of early-and-late season trapping, not a complete ban on trapping from January 1 to February 15. The controversy surrounding wolf trapping centers on the … Read more