Yellowstone National Park stands as a premier wildlife destination, preserving one of the last intact ecosystems in the lower 48 states. This expansive wilderness provides a crucial habitat where large carnivores, including bears, continue to thrive. Understanding the park’s bear populations is important for visitors, as it promotes both safety and appreciation for these magnificent animals in their natural environment.
Yellowstone’s Grizzly Bears
Yellowstone is home to the grizzly bear. These bears are physically identifiable by a prominent shoulder hump, a dish-shaped face, and long, less curved claws suited for digging. Adult male grizzlies typically weigh between 300 and 700 pounds, while females range from 200 to 400 pounds. They stand about 3.5 feet tall at the shoulder.
Grizzly bears are omnivores, consuming a diverse diet that includes plants, berries, roots, insects, and various mammals. Their diet adapts seasonally, with spring foraging often focused on winter-killed carcasses of elk and bison, along with succulent herbs like grasses and dandelions. Later in the year, they incorporate whitebark pine nuts, army cutworm moths, and spawning cutthroat trout into their diet. Grizzlies frequently scavenge ungulate carcasses left by wolves, reducing their foraging effort.
The grizzly bear population within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem has seen significant recovery due to conservation efforts. While they can be found throughout the park, they are often spotted in wide-open areas such as Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley, where they forage.
Yellowstone’s Black Bears
Yellowstone also supports a population of American black bears, more common and widely distributed than grizzlies. Black bears lack the distinctive shoulder hump of a grizzly and have a straighter facial profile. Their claws are shorter and more curved, making them adept at climbing trees.
Adult male black bears in Yellowstone typically weigh between 210 and 315 pounds, with females weighing 135 to 200 pounds. Despite their name, their coat color can vary widely, appearing black, brown, cinnamon, or even blonde, with many exhibiting colors other than black.
These bears are omnivores, with a diet that includes grasses, fruits, nuts, insects, and small mammals. Black bears are particularly fond of berries and often forage in forested areas. They are frequently seen in locations like the Tower-Roosevelt area, which offers suitable forested habitat.
Safe Practices Around Bears
Visitors must maintain a safe distance from all bears in Yellowstone, specifically 100 yards. Approaching bears for photographs or any other reason is prohibited. Carrying bear spray is highly recommended when hiking in bear country, and individuals should know how to use it effectively. Bear spray should be easily accessible.
Proper food storage is essential to prevent bears from associating humans with food sources. All food, garbage, and scented items must be secured in bear-resistant containers or vehicles. Bears that become accustomed to human food may become aggressive, often leading to their removal or euthanasia.
When hiking, making noise by talking or calling out “Hey bear!” can help avoid surprising a bear, especially in areas with limited visibility. Hiking in groups of three or more people is also advised, as it reduces bear encounters. If a bear is encountered, remaining calm and not running is important. Slowly backing away while speaking in a calm voice is recommended.
In the rare event of a physical attack, the response depends on the bear species. If a grizzly bear attacks, it is advised to play dead by lying on your stomach, spreading your legs slightly, and protecting your neck with your hands. If a black bear attacks, fighting back aggressively, aiming for the face, is the recommended action. Always be aware of park regulations and any area closures due to bear activity.