After Yellowstone National Park officials recently confirmed the first signs of grizzly bears waking up from hibernation for the spring season 2025, Grand Teton & Yellowstone wildlife guide Bo Welden shared some footage from last March of two grizzly bears coming out of their dens in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
Bo is an expert in wildlife identification and behavior and pegged this pair as a boar (male) pursuing a sow (female). When grizzlies emerge from hibernation they have two things on their minds:
“Food and love. Grizzly bears may be ravenous for some tasty food but not too long after they emerge from their dens bears start looking for mates as well.” -Bo Welden
As a reminder, all of Teton County is occupied grizzly bear habitat and as we head into spring he frequency of grizzly bear sightings will increase as the winter snowpack disappears. Grizzlies will be looking to replenish calories and residents should do their part to help prevent human-bear conflicts. This includes properly storing these attractants like garbage cans, coolers, cooking gear, bird feeders, and pet dishes. Learn more about coexisting with grizzly bears from Bear Wise Jackson Hole below.
Wyoming Bear Wise Living Guidelines:
Living in bear country requires year round vigilance and respect for wildlife. By implementing safeguards, we can create an environment that minimizes human-bear conflicts, protects both humans and bears, and ensures coexistence with bears in Wyoming.
Trash Container Regulations
Trash container regulations differ between the Town of Jackson and Teton County, so it is of utmost importance for all residents to understand where these regulations apply and adhere to them in order to minimize human-bear conflict. This not only safeguards the well-being of bears, but also minimizes property damage and human safety concerns.
Home & Garden Attractants
Black bears and grizzly bears are attracted to more than just human food. Examples of bear attractants include trash, fruit trees, chicken coops, pet and livestock feed, beehives, bird feeders of all types, and even compost. It’s crucial for residents in bear country to take steps to secure these attractants to prevent human-bear conflicts and ensure the well-being of both residents and bears in Wyoming.
images from Jackson Hole Wildlife Foundation