United States - January 28, 2025 Great Plains, Montana - As grizzly bears expand their range onto the Great Plains, human-bear conflicts are on the rise. To prevent livestock damage and ensure safety, wildlife managers have turned to drones, a surprising but effective tool in hazing these powerful creatures away from populated areas. The drones, equipped with thermal cameras, allow managers to locate and chase away bears with precision, even at night. Unlike traditional methods like trucks, shotguns, or even bear dogs, drones have proven more effective in keeping bears safely away from homes and farms, with long-term results showing that grizzlies learn to avoid people over time. The success of drones in these operations marks a new era in wildlife management, offering a safer, more efficient approach to preventing human-bear conflicts.