Montana Hiker Attacked and Bitten by Grizzly Bear Protecting Her Cub | Bear Located and Euthanized

A hiker was attacked and bitten by a female grizzly bear protecting her cub on Wednesday, according to a report from Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

• Related: Brain Post: The States With The Most Fatal Bear Attacks In The United States

The attack happened around 9 pm on Wednesday night, west of Dupuyer, MT. The bear’s behavior indicates she was protecting her cub from a perceived threat.

The hiker, who was bitten on the thigh, was carrying a pistol and managed to shoot and injure the bear, scaring her off. He walked back to his house where he informed the authorities.

The bear escaped into the brush along a creek and wardens and bear specialists searched for the animal for part of Wednesday night. The hunt resumed Thursday morning with a state helicopter and ground crews, Pondera County Sheriff Robert Skourupa said. The injured bear was located and euthanized.

The bear’s cub was not present when the mother was euthanized and has not been captured, Fish, Wildlife and Parks spokesperson Greg Lemon said.

Bear attacks are rare in North America and are usually for predatory, territorial, or protective reasons.