Western, Alaskan, and North American bear conflict and safety response

The 2026 conflict wave remains at peak intensity, led by Colorado's 8,672 incidents and Utah's 168 reports and 70 euthanizations. Urban cases, serious attacks, closures, and repeated residential encounters are being driven by drought, hyperphagia, scarce natural foods, development, and unsecured attractants. Montana management decisions are expected around October 15.