Utah’s wilderness areas are often associated with various wildlife, prompting questions about the presence of large carnivores like grizzly bears. While black bears are common throughout the state, the status of grizzly bears is a different matter.
Current Status of Grizzlies in Utah
Utah is not part of the established range for grizzly bears. Black bears are the only species of bear with resident populations, and there are no known breeding populations of grizzlies in Utah. Occasional transient grizzly bears occasionally cross into Utah from neighboring states, particularly from the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem in Wyoming and Idaho. Grizzly bear populations in the Greater Yellowstone area have expanded, with young male bears exploring farther from their home ranges. If a grizzly is confirmed in Utah, wildlife managers typically attempt to capture and relocate it to a recovery zone outside the state.
Historical Presence and Factors Limiting Their Return
Grizzly bears were once widespread across Utah but were extirpated from the state by the early 20th century. The last known grizzly bear in Utah was reportedly killed in 1923, though some accounts suggest a few individuals persisted until around 1930. This decline was largely due to habitat loss, human expansion, and hunting pressure. Factors currently limiting their re-establishment include a lack of suitable contiguous habitat and high human population density. Utah does not have enough large, wild areas to support a grizzly population without significant conflict.
Distinguishing Grizzlies from Black Bears
Distinguishing grizzly bears from black bears is important, as color is not a reliable indicator; both species can range from black to brown, cinnamon, or even blonde. Instead, observe a combination of physical characteristics. Grizzlies have a prominent shoulder hump, absent in black bears, and a concave facial profile, unlike black bears’ straighter one. Grizzly ears are smaller and more rounded, whereas black bears have larger, more pointed ears. Additionally, grizzlies have longer, gently curved claws (two to four inches) adapted for digging, while black bears have shorter, sharper claws (less than two inches) suited for climbing.
Coexisting Safely in Bear Country
Practicing bear safety is important when recreating in bear country.
Food and Campsite Safety
Proper food storage is key. All food, snacks, and scented items should be stored where bears cannot access them, such as a locked vehicle or bear-resistant container. Never leave food or scented items in a tent. Maintain a clean campsite by disposing of all trash in bear-proof dumpsters or packing it out.
Hiking and Encounters
Make noise while hiking, especially in dense vegetation or around blind corners, to avoid surprising a bear. Carry bear spray and know how to use it as a deterrent. If a bear is encountered, stand your ground, make yourself appear large, and speak calmly; running can trigger a chase response. If a black bear attacks, fight back. If a grizzly bear makes physical contact, play dead by lying on your stomach, protecting your neck, and remaining still.