Black bear hunters in Montana are required to complete a bear identification test to obtain a black bear license. The identification program is intended to prevent the killing of grizzly bears as a result of mistaken identity.

Bear Identification Program Features:

Introduction Page;  Learn about the Bear Identification Program and the options available for taking the Certification test. You will also find important contact information should you have questions.

Training;  Learn how to identify Black Bears and Grizzly Bears. Each of the important identifying traits of the Black Bear and Grizzly Bear Species are identified and explained in this section. It is important to become familiar with these traits before moving on to the “I See a Bear” part of the program.

I See a Bear;  Use your identification skills to determine the species of the Bear on this virtual hunt. Choose to “Shoot” or “Don’t Shoot” as you look through your binoculars at actual bears in the wild. It is important to be able to perform well in this exercise in order to pass the certification or “Testing” portion of this program.

Testing;  Take the Bear Identification Test. This test consists of 15 multiple-choice questions. You need to correctly answer 12 questions (80 percent) to obtain a certificate of completion; you may retake the test until a passing grade is obtained. You only need to pass the test once; re-certification is not required.

To take the online bear hunting identification test now, click the link below; http://fwpiis.mt.gov/bearid/test.htm

Source: Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
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