Grizzly Bear Shot in Priest Lake Drainage
A hunter in North Idaho mistakenly killed a young female grizzly bear on the evening of May 9, thinking it was a black bear. The incident occurred in the Priest Lake drainage area of Bonner County, within Idaho’s Panhandle region.
Upon realizing the error at the scene, the hunter immediately reported the shooting through the Citizens Against Poaching hotline. Idaho Fish and Game (IDFG) officials confirmed that the hunter is fully cooperating with their ongoing investigation.
Identification Error Highlights Species Similarities
IDFG emphasized that grizzly bears are protected under both state and federal law, and hunters are legally required to properly identify their targets before taking a shot. Mistaken identity between black bears and grizzlies remains a known challenge in the region, where both species coexist.
To address this, a new regulation will take effect on January 1, 2025, requiring all black bear hunters in Idaho to pass a mandatory bear identification test. In addition to the test, all hunters are encouraged to review identification materials and remain aware of bear features before heading into the field.
Key Differences Between Grizzly and Black Bears
Wildlife experts caution that color and size alone are not reliable indicators for distinguishing species. Instead, hunters are advised to observe:
- Ear shape: Grizzlies have short, rounded ears.
- Facial profile: Grizzlies often show a dished (concave) face.
- Shoulders: A noticeable shoulder hump is typical of a grizzly.
- Claws: Grizzly claws are longer, ranging from 2 to 4 inches.
IDFG Urges Caution and Training
IDFG officials reiterated the importance of awareness, especially in areas like the Panhandle and Upper Snake regions where grizzly populations are known to exist. The department expressed regret over the bear’s death but commended the hunter’s immediate self-reporting and cooperation.
Hunters can access identification resources and testing materials through the Idaho Fish and Game website.
