Black Bear Spotted Near University of Montana Western Campus in Dillon

DILLON, Mont. — Police and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks are monitoring a black bear spotted Tuesday morning near the end of South Dakota Street, close to the University of Montana Western campus.

The bear was reported in the area Tuesday morning, prompting a response from local law enforcement and FWP. Officials have been using a drone to help track and monitor the bear's location.

According to initial reports from the scene, the bear is believed to be sleeping in a grove of willows.

Officials may be preparing bear traps in an effort to safely capture the animal and remove it from the area. That plan remains preliminary as authorities continue monitoring the situation.

Public Asked to Avoid the Area

Residents, students and others are being asked to avoid the area around the end of South Dakota Street and give police and FWP personnel room to work.

Anyone who encounters the bear should keep their distance and should not approach or attempt to photograph the animal at close range.

This is a developing situation. Southwestern Montana News will update this story as additional information becomes available.