Grizzly bears hold an important place in Idaho’s natural heritage. These powerful omnivores, once widespread across North America, are a significant part of Idaho’s wildlife. Public interest in their presence remains high.
Idaho’s Grizzly Bear Numbers
Estimating the precise number of grizzly bears in Idaho is a complex scientific endeavor, making exact counts challenging. Current assessments indicate an estimated population of approximately 80 to 100 grizzly bears across the state. These numbers are derived from various monitoring efforts. The overall trend suggests a significant expansion and stabilization of populations since their listing under federal protections.
Grizzly bears in the contiguous United States have been listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) since 1975. This protected status makes hunting them illegal, and their recovery and management are closely monitored.
Where Idaho’s Grizzlies Roam
Grizzly bears in Idaho are primarily found in specific geographic regions, concentrated in the northern and eastern parts of the state. These areas correspond to designated recovery zones. The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, which extends into eastern Idaho, supports a portion of the state’s grizzly population. In northern Idaho, grizzlies inhabit the Selkirk Mountains and parts of the Cabinet-Yaak Ecosystem. Historically, grizzlies roamed much of Idaho, but their range is now much more restricted.
The Bitterroot Ecosystem, encompassing central Idaho and western Montana, is recognized as a significant recovery zone with ample suitable habitat. However, it does not currently support an established breeding population. Occasional sightings in this area indicate individual bears are exploring and moving into these habitats. Ideal grizzly habitat often includes a mix of forests, meadows, and grasslands, providing diverse food sources and cover.
Protecting Idaho’s Grizzly Bears
Conservation efforts for Idaho’s grizzly bears involve a collaborative approach focused on ensuring their long-term presence and recovery. Agencies implement strategies for habitat protection and work to minimize human-bear conflicts. Monitoring methods include annual research trapping and collaring, which help biologists track individual bears and gather data on their movements, reproduction, and survival rates. This information aids in understanding population dynamics and guiding management decisions. The Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team contributes to these scientific efforts.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) manage and conserve grizzlies. Public education programs inform residents and visitors about bear safety, proper food storage, and how to distinguish between grizzly and black bears to prevent accidental encounters. These protective measures, alongside efforts to improve habitat connectivity, contribute to the recovery and stability of grizzly bears in Idaho.