Yellowstone National Park — Spectacular footage taken this morning inside Yellowstone National Park of a wolf and grizzly bear in a fierce battle over half submerged decaying bison carcass in the Yellowstone River. The footage offers a raw look at the power struggle between two of North America’s most iconic predators.
Grizzlies are considered the undisputed “kings of the carcass” in Yellowstone National Park and although this wolf put on a valiant display, as the saying goes it was all bark and no bite.
Even though wolves are faster and more agile, a single wolf rarely risks a direct physical fight with a grizzly bear. Instead, you’ll see the wolf harassing the bear, probing and darting in for quick annoying nips at its heels hoping the bear will get frustrated and leave a few scraps behind.
It goes without saying that it is simply remarkable that this type of encounter can be witnessed by observant visitors of Yellowstone National Park who know the lay of the land and the behavior of the resident wildlife. Kudos to wildlife photographer and author Julie Argyle for sharing the video. If you are into western ecology, consider picking up on of Julie’s books:
