A beloved grizzly bear who gained international fame for spawning cubs well beyond her average breeding years has died after being struck by a vehicle at the Grand Teton National Park. Grizzly bear 399, revered by wildlife enthusiasts, scientists, and photographers alike, met her tragic end on the night of October 22, 2024, on Highway 26/28, known for the proximity it shares with the park's abundant wildlife.
Identified through her ear tags and microchip, the bear was approximately 28 years old, making her the oldest known reproducing female grizzly bear within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. This remarkable bear was often seen during spring as she emerged from hibernation with her cubs, drawing large crowds of tourists who flocked to witness her familial displays.
"The grizzly bear is an iconic species, helping to make the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem so extraordinary," stated Chip Jenkins, Grand Teton National Park superintendent. Jenkins reminisced about 399’s significant role as not just a bear but as a steward for conservation, hinting at her ability to inspire countless visitors who encountered her over the years.
Regrettably, Grizzly 399 was accompanied by her yearling cub at the time of the accident. Fortunately, wildlife officials have stated there is no indication the cub was harmed, though its current whereabouts remain unclear. Authorities are actively monitoring the area for the young bear's safety.
Vehicle collisions involving wildlife are not uncommon within this region, with reports stating 49 grizzly bears have been killed by vehicles from 2009 to 2023. Already, 2024 has seen two fatalities due to similar circumstances, the other involving Grizzly 399. Angi Bruce, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department Director, expressed the community's sorrow, remarking on the unfortunate nature of wildlife-vehicle conflicts.
A crowd favorite who frequently congested local roadways, Grizzly 399’s habits of bringing her cubs near roads may have deterred male grizzly bears, which are typically known to prey on the young ones. This strategy, incredibly unusual compared to other bears, could explain her impressive reproductive history, having birthed 28 cubs and grand cubs throughout her life.
Grizzly 399 had comfortably settled her fate as not just another bear. She was the subject of admiration and devotion, culminating in her own social media following of over 54,000 users dedicated to tracking her life and adventures. The love and admiration she garnered were evident as the news of her death rippled through social media, resulting in heartfelt tributes from her fans worldwide.
Her extraordinary life was also captured through various media – she was featured prominently in the PBS documentary titled "Grizzly 399: Queen of the Tetons," showcasing her story and familial bonds. This documentary explored her challenges and triumphs as she navigated motherhood and the rigors of life as one of the park's most observed animals.
"People from around the world have followed grizzly bear 399 for several decades, and at 28 years old, she was the oldest known reproducing female grizzly bear," stated Hilary Cooley, Grizzly Bear Recovery Coordinator for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, shedding light on the exceptional nature of this bear’s legacy.
Drawing visitors time and time again, the bear's natural charisma and resilience made her not just another grizzly but one of the beacons of wildlife conservation within the area. Local wildlife photographer Thomas Mangelsen expressed his sentiments; "399 has changed people's attitude toward grizzly bears. And because of her, she will likely save bears from being delisted and killed," he noted, stressing her integral role within and beyond the confines of the park.
The circumstances around Grizzly 399’s death have ignited discussions surrounding wildlife management within Grand Teton National Park and its surrounding areas. Given the increasing number of bear encounters due to population rises – up to 1,000 grizzlies now roam the Yellowstone region since protective measures were put in place – local officials are emphasizing the need for safer coexistence strategies between wildlife and growing human populations.
While the driver involved remained unharmed in the collision, conversations around the safety of wildlife within busy thoroughfares will hopefully evolve as awareness surrounding these incidents becomes more widespread. "We've got more work to do to make sure we can coexist successfully with the local bear population," Schwabedissen, a bear biologist from Grand Teton, remarked.
Though Grizzly 399 has departed, her inspiring legacy continues to shape the perception and conservation efforts tied to grizzly bears. Her life story is one of triumph, resilience, and the link between nature and humanity, leaving behind cherished memories and lessons for both conservationists and visitors alike. The world may have lost Grizzly 399, but her impact remains indelible, marking her forever as the 'Queen of the Grand Tetons' and symbolizing the enduring spirit of wildlife conservation.