Grizzly bear killed after becoming habituated to human food

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KALISPELL, Mont. (AP) — Wildlife officials have euthanized a male grizzly bear after it broke into a garage and fed on a harvested elk.

The Flathead Beacon reports that Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks captured the bear Nov. 10 on private property near Libby and consulted with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service officials for guidance.

Officials say the bear was caught in October after attempting to break into a barn and was habituated to human food.

Researchers say it gained 100 pounds (45 kilograms) between the two captures.

State wildlife officials say this was also the bear that was captured for research in 2005 and that attacked a wildlife researcher last year.

Officials urge residents to remove or secure food attractants such as garbage and bird seed and follow precautionary steps and tips.