Yellowstone records first grizzly bear sighting of 2021

Yellowstone National Park has logged its first grizzly bear sighting of 2021, indicating that the hibernation season is nearly over.

The bear, which was interacting with wolves at a large animal carcass, was spotted Saturday by a pilot participating in a wildlife study, according to a news release issued Tuesday.

Male grizzly bears typically begin to emerge from their dens in early March. Female grizzly bears with cubs emerge in April and early May.

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The bears will immediately try to fatten up on elk and bison that perished during the harsh winter.

“When bears first emerge from hibernation, they look for carcasses at lower elevations and spring vegetation in thermal meadows and south-facing slopes for nourishment,” said Kerry Gunther, a Yellowstone bear management biologist.

The park stated that bears “will react aggressively” toward intruders while feeding and urged visitors to stay at least 100 yards from the animals.

Visitors also should carry bear spray in case of surprise encounters.

–Generic grizzly bear image courtesy of Yellowstone National Park