WATCHABLE WILDLIFE

We’re not the only ones who call this place home.

Within our regional boundaries are more than 22,000 square miles, thousands of lakes and streams, diverse wilderness areas and Glacier National Park—one of the most intact ecosystems in the continental United States. Numerous species of wildlife live within this terrain, including grizzly bears, black bears, bison, moose, wolves, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, elk, mountain lions, wolverines, lynx and deer. There are also hundreds of species of birds that call our mountains and valleys home, including bald eagles, osprey, harlequin ducks, snowy owls and golden eagles.

8 PLACES FOR WILDLIFE WATCHING IN WESTERN MONTANA

1. Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge, Stevensville

2. Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge, Marion

3. Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge, Charlo

4. Pablo National Wildlife Refuge, Pablo

5. Swan River National Wildlife Refuge, Swan Lake

6. Teller Wildlife Refuge, Corvallis

7. The Bison Range, Moiese

8. Wild Horse Island State Park, Flathead Lake

For more information, visit glaciermt.com/wildlife-watching and glaciermt.com/wildlife-and-bear-safety

WILDLIFE SAFETY: Wildlife is just that—wild. It’s important to act responsibly around wildlife, and it’s also vital that, while recreating in the area, we help preserve and enhance wildlife habitat by practicing Leave No Trace principles. That means staying safe and keeping others, including wildlife, safe as well.

1. View wildlife from the safety of your car or from a safe distance. Stay at least 100 yards away from bears and at least 25 yards away from other large animals.

2. Never approach, touch or feed wildlife, even when an animal does not seem to be threatened by your presence.

3. Let wildlife know you’re nearby. When hiking, be sure to bring a friend, carry bear spray, stay on designated trails and make noise at regular intervals.

GOOD TO KNOW: Dawn and dusk are the best times to see wildlife, especially during the summer months. Western Montana is wild: Keep in mind that you can see wildlife anywhere in the region. When recreating outdoors, be sure to practice proper outdoor safety to ensure your wildlife encounters are positive.