Grizzly Shot: Missoula Hunter Mistakenly Shoots Grizzly Bear

MISSOULA – Montana wildlife officials say a Missoula hunter shot and killed a male grizzly bear that he mistakenly thought was a black bear.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks officials say the grizzly was shot Oct. 31 near Placid Lake in northwestern Montana.

The man contacted the state wildlife agency after he realized he'd shot a grizzly. Game wardens issued him a citation. He could face a fine of up to $2,000 and $2,000 in restitution.

FWP Warden Capt. Jeff Darrah says the 500-pound grizzly was about four years old and in good shape.

Montana hunters must pass a bear identification test before buying a black bear license.

Grizzly bears in Montana are protected under the Endangered Species Act.