The community of Simms is on the lookout tonight, following recent sightings of grizzly bears. State wildlife officials have issued warnings to those in that area to watch out for the dangerous creatures, who haven’t been near Simms in many years.

Jack Kirby lives and works on a ranch two miles outside of Simms. Recently he encountered some unexpected visitors. He says he has seen a lot in his 60 years here, but what he saw on Friday he won't soon forget."

"I was bailing hay. My cows were acting up and I was wondering what they were all riled up about. I looked out and I saw what i thought was a camel. Then i realized they were bears."

Kirby says he was only 40 yards away from a grizzly and two cubs, who were eating one of his cows. Not far from Kirby's ranch, bow hunter Bill Kelley purchased bear spray after hearing the news.

"The reason I am still not out there is the bears. You don't want to be out after dark when there are grizzlies around."

Just two miles away at Simms school, administrators are keeping a close eye on the situation.

"I'm very concerned,” said Sun River Superintendent Rob Hankins. “There was a sighting just a half of a mile from here at the bridge to Fairfield."

One parent, meanwhile, says he's not too worried.

"We've lived here for nine years and this is a safe community," said Carson Stark. “People call the authorities if one comes close by."

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is investigating and warning area landowners to beware of bears.

"A lady called me today that said there were some more tracks this morning where she lives," Kirby said. “This is just something that happens. You have to live with it.”

Wildlife officials say this year's sightings are highly unusual in the area, and they expect the bears to pass through onto higher elevation, where they will go to hibernate.