Unique Journey of the Lincoln Grizzly
He was born in 1995 during hibernation. In July 1996, was captured, tattooed and radio- collared along near Choteau, Montana on the Rocky Mountain Front.
When captured, he and his sibling brother were feeding on livestock grain on a ranch near Choteau. To avoid potential conflicts, both were captured and relocated to separate locations.
Only 13 days later he had travelled 33 miles to the same ranch looking for more food. The grain was removed, and he moved on.
In October 1996, he was hit by a vehicle along the Rocky Mountain Front. Biologists who radio- collared him were able to locate and observe him. They were concerned he might not survive his injuries. Fortunately, he did, and his radio collar continued to provide information on his travels until May 1998. For several years thereafter his location and activities remained a mystery. In 2004, hair samples from this bear were collected as part of a DNA research study along the Blackfoot River between Lincoln and Ovando and north of Seeley Lake.
This DNA evidence and possible sightings suggests he lived in the area for at least three to four years.
In the early morning of October 2007, a pickup truck hit him on the highway five miles west of Lincoln, fracturing his skull and killing him instantly. The driver of the truck was not injured, but the vehicle sustained $7,500 worth of damage in spite of having a heavy-duty bumper and grill guard.
Loss of this majestic grizzly became a major story throughout the state and country, generating considerable interest as to where the bear should be displayed. Area school children joined the debate by writing heartfelt letters and essays on where he should be permanently placed. Ultimately, they were rewarded for their efforts and support when the decision was made to keep the grizzly in Lincoln. Members of the United Taxidermist Association donated their skills and artistic talent to turn this tragedy into an interactive learning experience. Community businesses donated lodging and meals to support the taxidermists. And local art students painted the mural for the bears home. Their efforts have helped us celebrate this bear and Lincoln’s unique relationship with its neighboring bears.
When alive he was a healthy 12-year-old male, weighing 830 lbs. and would have stood approximately 8 feet tall. Today he is on display in the Lincoln, Montana USFS Ranger Station.
