Grizzly Bears

Even though the grizzly bear population is at 2% of its historic population in the lower 48 states, you have a good chance of spotting one while in Big Sky country.

  • Grizzly bears are generally at lower elevations in the spring and higher elevations in the mid-summer and winter months.
  • They prefer timbered areas, meadows, or river bottoms when the fishing is good.
  • Yellowstone National Park is a short distance to travel from Big Sky to see both black and grizzly bears.

Overview

In 1975, the Grizzly bear was listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act. Today, its protection status is listed as threatened. There are 1,000 - 1,200 grizzly bears remaining in five separate populations in the lower 48 states.

When out and about in Big Sky country, you may see either a black or grizzly bear. Grizzly bears are larger than black bears. They have a distinct hump above the shoulders and the rump is lower then the shoulder hump. Their facial profile is concave rather than straight. Their ears are shorter and round and the claws are long and straight (evident in the tracks). Their diet in the summer months includes carrion, cutthroat trout, large and small mammals, and vegetation. In face, more than half their diet consists of vegetation.

Interesting Facts

  • Grizzly bears are omnivorous and will eat both vegetation and animals.
  • A Grizzly bear has a better sense of smell than a hound dog! These bears can detect food from miles away.
  • Weigh up to 800 lbs
  • Average life span in the wild is 25 years
  • Females give birth during winter and will have 1-3 cubs.

Best Places for Viewing Grizzly Bears

In Big Sky country, you can see both black and grizzly bears. Ecosystems where they are most frequently spotted are timbered areas and meadows above 7000 feet. On average, grizzly bears are shy, and tend to stay in the backcountry compared to the black bear. It is not uncommon to run into the occasional black bear on a forested trail around the ski resort or timber roads that surround the Big Sky area.

Respecting Wildlife

While the risk of encountering a bear (grizzly or black) is low, it is better to be prepared.

  • Shout or sing to make bears aware of your presence on trails.
  • Hike in groups and use caution when hiking in thick vegetation.
  • Do not hike after dark.
  • Avoid carcasses; where there is a carcass, a bear is often not far away and it will defend its dinner.
  • A bear can outrun you. Running may also elicit an attack from an otherwise non aggressive bear. If the bear is unaware of you, detour away from the bear. If the bear is aware of you and nearby, but has not acted aggressively, slowly back away but do not turn your back to the bear.
  • Do NOT climb a tree. All black bears, all grizzly cubs, and some adult grizzlies can climb trees.
  • Some bears will bluff their way out of a threatening situation by charging, then veering off or stopping abruptly at the last second. Bear experts generally recommend standing still until the bear stops and then slowly backing away.
  • If a bear approaches you, drop to the ground, lie face down, and clasp your hands behind your neck. Lie still and remain silent. Resistance will only provoke the bear. Before moving, listen and look around carefully to make sure the bear is no longer nearby.
  • A fed bear is a dead bear!

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