Tragedy struck at Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park this week as renowned grizzly bear No. 399 was killed by a vehicle. A favorite among visitors, this female bear was a beloved icon, drawing wildlife enthusiasts and photographers from all over.
Details of the Incident
Officials from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS) reported that No. 399 was hit by a car on Highway 26/89 in the Snake River Canyon, just south of Jackson. Her identity was confirmed via ear tags and a microchip.
At the time of the accident, she was with a yearling cub, whose fate remains unclear as of Wednesday morning. “Currently, there’s no indication that the cub was part of the incident, but we’re keeping a close eye on the area,” said the FWS in a statement.
While vehicle encounters with wildlife are unfortunately not rare, the agency is collaborating with local authorities to investigate the situation further. “It’s tragic when wildlife is involved in vehicle accidents. We’re relieved that the driver is safe and understand the community’s sorrow over the loss of bear 399,” expressed Angi Bruce, director of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.
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A Closer Look at Grizzly 399
Grizzly 399 became famous for her frequent cub-rearing near park roads, offering visitors a unique chance to observe a mother bear in her natural habitat. Over the years, she garnered a dedicated following, with her life chronicled on social media, highlighted in a book, and featured in a PBS nature documentary, making her a powerful symbol of wildlife conservation in the Rockies.
Chip Jenkins, the Grand Teton National Park superintendent, stated, “Grizzly 399 has been a prominent ambassador for her species. She’s inspired many visitors to embrace conservation efforts, and her loss will be deeply felt.”
The Bigger Picture of Wildlife Conservation
This incident underscores the ongoing risks that wildlife face near human environments. Although park authorities have been proactive in protecting these animals, they continue to advocate for safe driving to prevent future accidents.
It’s worth noting that this isn’t the first close call for 399’s family. Her offspring, Grizzly 610, was injured in October 2023 after being struck by a semi-truck but managed to recover and reunite with her cubs.
Since 2009, the Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team has reported 49 grizzly bear fatalities due to vehicle collisions in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, averaging about 3.3 deaths each year. So far in 2024, including No. 399’s tragic end, there have been two bear deaths linked to vehicle strikes.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.