In a recently released study of grizzly bears in and around Yellowstone National Park, scientists have announced that the population is at the highest level seen in many decades. Unfortunately, this means that the bears are being forced into more densely populated areas, which explains the increased frequency in news items about grizzly run-ins that we have been seeing lately.
Since 1975, the grizzly population in Yellowstone has tripled. There are now approximately 603 grizzlies in the area; the growth is being attributed to outlawing hunting of grizzlies and being placed on the endangered species list. However, even with the tremendous growth the species has seen, the grizzly will still remain on the endangered list. The protection under the Endangered Species Act was briefly removed in 2007 but was later reinstated, though that decision is on appeal, with a final decision expected in 2012.
Though scientists are hopeful for a recovery of the grizzly population, they have been met with resistance. Many are concerned of the danger grizzlies pose to park visitors, though you are more likely get into a car crash in the park before you’re mauled by a grizzly bear. Even if they remain under the protection of the Endangered Species Act, whitebark pine beetle infestations have destroyed a large percentage of the bears nourishment, forcing them to find alternative sources of food. While grizzlies adapt to changes in food source quickly, it’s difficult to predict how much this would affect the overall population.
Read more about the issue in USA Today.
I’m glad for the bears. But a little afraid about hiking the back country there.
I opened a canister of bear spray last summerbut I was discouraged that it dispersed so quickly. It seemed that you’d need to wait till the bear was chewing off your lateral trochanter before you’d pull the trigger.