Grizzly Bear 399, the iconic grizzly bear known by wildlife photographers around the world, tragically died after being struck by a vehicle in Wyoming. The 28-year-old bear was identified by her ear tags and microchip, making her the oldest known reproducing female grizzly bear in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Having had 18 cubs over the years, Grizzly Bear 399 was not traveling alone at the time of the incident, as she had a yearling cub with her, whose whereabouts are currently unknown. A Facebook group dedicated to the bear, called ‘Team 399’, has been flooded with comments and personal stories expressing love for the beloved bear.
The park expressed their sadness over the loss of Grizzly Bear 399, highlighting that wildlife vehicle collisions are unfortunately not uncommon. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department Director mentioned that they are thankful the driver was not injured in the incident and acknowledged the community’s sorrow at the bear’s passing. Grizzly bear/vehicle collisions have resulted in a number of bear mortalities in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem over the years, with an average of 3.3 bears per year between 2009-2023. The death of Grizzly Bear 399 adds to the total of grizzly bear mortalities from vehicle strikes in 2024, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to protect these iconic species.
The outpouring of grief and support for Grizzly Bear 399 on social media has been overwhelming, with many expressing their personal connections to the bear and the impact she had on their lives. Individuals recounted fond memories of watching the bear with her cubs, providing comic relief during difficult times, and serving as an ambassador for grizzlies worldwide. Many fans shared their hope that the yearling cub would survive on its own in the wilderness, carrying on the legacy of Grizzly Bear 399 as the Queen of the Tetons.
The circumstances surrounding the crash that resulted in Grizzly Bear 399’s death remain unclear, leaving both the park officials and the public with lingering questions about the incident. The bear’s legacy, however, will live on through the memories and conservation efforts inspired by her presence in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Grand Teton National Park Superintendent Chip Jenkins paid tribute to Grizzly Bear 399, emphasizing her role as a prominent ambassador for the grizzly bear species and acknowledging the impact she had on visitors from around the world. The loss of Grizzly Bear 399 serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by wildlife in human-populated areas and the importance of conservation efforts to protect these iconic species for future generations.
