Montana Bear Encounters Are Increasing, And There's A Reason WhyIf it feels like we've been hearing about more bear encounters in Montana this year, there's actually a pretty good reason for it. Failed Berry Crops Are Leaving Montana Bears Searching For FoodAccording to Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP), berry crops across Montana are failing in large numbers this year. For bears, those berries are an important source of food as they prepare for fall and get ready for winter. Source: Montana Right NowLOOK: Top 7 Places with Highest Risk of Bear Encounters in Montana It's important to note that while certain areas have higher bear populations, bears are wild animals with unpredictable behaviors. Let's look at some of the best options we found.