Hit An Animal? These 12 You Must Report Immediately In MT

BUTTE, MT - Montana roads are no strangers to wildlife encounters.

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Whether you're cruising down I-90 at sunset or navigating a winding backroad in the middle of nowhere, there’s always a chance that something big, small, or downright unexpected might cross your path.

If you’ve lived here long enough, you’ve probably had that heart-pounding moment—a deer leaping out of the darkness, a bird veering just a little too close, or even a skunk making a mad dash like it has nothing left to lose.

But here’s something you might not know: not all roadkill is created equal.

In Montana, certain animals come with official obligations.

What To Do If You've Hit an Animal in Montana

If you hit them—whether by accident or pure bad luck—you’re legally required to report it. And no, it’s not just the usual suspects like deer or elk.

Some of the creatures on this list might surprise you.

Now, before you start picturing yourself explaining to a game warden why you just pancaked a porcupine (don’t worry, they’re not on the list), let’s talk about why these rules exist in the first place.

In a state where wildlife is practically part of the population, roadkill reporting helps conservation efforts, ensures public safety, and, in some cases, even prevents you from unknowingly committing a crime.

Certain animals are so important that hitting one without reporting it could land you in some serious trouble.

Ever heard of someone getting a fine for running over a bird? It’s happened.

So, whether you’re a Montana native or just passing through, it’s time to familiarize yourself with the rules of the road—the ones that involve fur, feathers, and sometimes, a whole lot of paperwork.

Here’s the official list of animals you must report if you hit them in Montana. Buckle up, because some of these might just leave you scratching your head.