Yellowstone National Park proposes killing 1,000 bison this winter

In an attempt to keep bison from migrating into Montana from Yellowstone National Park, officials are proposing to kill about 1,000 of the wild animals over the winter.

Primarily calves and females would be targeted, The Associated Press reports. Park officials will meet on Thursday with American Indian tribes and representatives from state and federal agencies to decide on a plan. Over the summer, about 5,000 bison lived in the park, and if winter conditions are harsh, thousands could make their way into portions of southwestern Montana. If the plan goes through, hunters would likely kill more than 300 of the animals, while others would be captured for slaughter or research.

In 2000, an agreement was made between Montana and the federal government to kill bison in order to prevent the spreading of disease to livestock.

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