Since 1980, 63 grizzlies have been killed by trains along a stretch of railroad near Glacier National Park in Montana. Many of the bears are believed to have been killed while trying to cross the tracks, or while scavenging for grain that has spilled from rail cars.

In recent years, the number of grizzly bears killed by trains has increased. In 2019, eight grizzlies were killed by trains, the highest number in a single year since records began.

There are a number of factors that contribute to the high rate of grizzly bear mortality along this stretch of railroad. One factor is the fact that the railroad tracks cut through prime grizzly bear habitat. Grizzly bears often use the tracks as travel corridors, and they are also attracted to the grain that is often spilled from rail cars.

Another factor that contributes to the high rate of grizzly bear mortality is the speed of the trains. Trains can travel at speeds of up to 70 miles per hour, and grizzly bears often have difficulty crossing the tracks in time.

Finally, the fact that some of the grizzly bears are killed while intoxicated by fermented grain is also a cause for concern. Fermented grain can cause bears to become disoriented and uncoordinated, which can make them more likely to be hit by a train.

The death of grizzly bears along this stretch of railroad is a serious problem. Grizzly bears are a federally threatened species, and their population in Montana is estimated to be only around 1,000 bears. The loss of even a small number of grizzly bears can have a significant impact on the population.

There are a number of things that can be done to reduce the number of grizzly bears killed by trains. One option is to build wildlife bridges and tunnels that would allow bears to cross the tracks safely. Another option is to reduce the speed of trains in areas where grizzly bears are known to be present.

It is also important to educate the public about the dangers of feeding bears. Feeding bears can lead to bears becoming habituated to human contact, and it can also make them more likely to scavenge for food along railroad tracks.

By taking these steps, we can help to reduce the number of grizzly bears killed by trains and protect this important species.

©️ Rocky Mountain Dispatch 2023