Grizzly bear 399 — a 28-year-old bear known to millions of people and who was an economic force, drawing countless tourists to Jackson Hole — died late Tuesday in a Snake River Canyon vehicle strike.
The matriarch bruin who raised her cubs roadside in Grand Teton National Park for nearly two decades was fatally struck and later identified through ear tags and a microchip, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The whereabouts of her single cub are unknown.
“At this time, there is no evidence to suggest the yearling was also involved in the incident, but the Service is monitoring the area,” the federal agency stated in a news release.
Wildlife photographer Patricia Lavin captured this image of then-26-year-old Grizzly 399 in September 2022. (Patricia Lavin)
The Fish and Wildlife Service’s announcement included remarks from federal and state agencies.
“People from around the world have followed grizzly bear 399 for several decades. At 28 years old, she was the oldest known reproducing female grizzly bear in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.”
-Hilary Cooley, grizzly bear recovery coordinator for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
“Wildlife vehicle collisions and conflict are unfortunate. We are thankful the driver is okay and understand the community is saddened to hear that grizzly bear 399 has died.
-Angi Bruce, Wyoming Game and Fish department director
“The grizzly bear is an iconic species that helps make the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem so extraordinary. Grizzly bear 399 has been perhaps the most prominent ambassador for the species. She has inspired countless visitors into conservation stewardship around the world and will be missed.”
-Grand Teton National Park Superintendent Chip Jenkins
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
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