Tragic Loss in Grand Teton: Beloved Grizzly Bear Dies After Vehicle Collision
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming – A beloved 5-year-old grizzly bear, known as Grizzly No. 1058, was tragically killed after being hit by a vehicle, mirroring the fate of his mother, Grizzly No. 399, who died in a similar accident last October. Park rangers discovered No. 1058’s body near Highway 26, approximately 125 yards from the Buffalo Fork River. The bear was one of four cubs born in May 2020 to the famous Grizzly No. 399, the oldest known reproducing female in the Yellowstone ecosystem.
Grizzly No. 399 captivated tourists and wildlife enthusiasts for years, giving birth to 18 cubs in eight litters throughout her life, which included her litter with No. 1058. Tragically, both bears were victims of vehicle collisions. No. 399 was well-loved in the community, with her frequent appearances near roads creating traffic jams and drawing crowds.
Wildlife officials confirmed that No. 1058 may have died a few days before being found, with no prior sightings reported this spring. They emphasized the importance of driver vigilance in parks, stating that wildlife can unpredictably cross roads. Between 2009 and 2023, vehicle collisions claimed the lives of 49 grizzly bears in the area.
Park officials urge visitors to remain alert and avoid speeding, highlighting that distractions often contribute to these accidents. With grizzly populations recovering from historical lows, the loss of such iconic bears is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by wildlife in national parks.
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