As news spreads that the most iconic grizzly bear in the world was struck and killed by a vehicle this week in Wyoming, it’s worth pausing to recognize how a single bruin in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem made such an impact on how people connect with the species.  

Known as Grizzly bear 399, the 28-year-old female became an ambassador for the species because of her age, prolific reproduction, and for living so close to the community of Jackson, Wyoming. The bear produced at least 18 offspring, including a set of quadruplets, during her remarkably long life.  

The bear’s fame became an economic driver, creating tension at times over the anthropomorphism of a single female grizzly. Still, her fame no doubt inspired more people to learn about grizzlies, their remarkable comeback story, and the challenges the species face related to a rapidly changing climate and communities spreading further into traditional grizzly habitat.  

Grizzly 399 is just one of at least 46 bears killed by human conflict in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem this year, according to data compiled by the U.S. Department of Interior. According to the Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team, an average of three bears are killed in the region each year due to vehicle collisions. From 2009-2023, 49 Greater Yellowstone grizzly bears were killed by vehicle collisions, including one of 399’s cubs in 2016. Thankfully, the driver who collided with 399 is safe.  

As more people live in and visit communities that are also home to large wildlife species, it’s important to recognize that states, Tribes, nonprofits, federal agencies, and local organizations are partnering to keep people safe and wildlife alive. Some of the tools available to communities include the development of wildlife crossings and using bear-safe strategies like securing food, garbage, and other attractants. Living with grizzly bears isn’t always easy, but we know people and bears can thrive on shared landscapes.  

Thank you to Grizzly bear 399 for shining a bright spotlight on the importance of grizzlies to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and beyond.

—Emilie Ritter, Director of Communications and Marketing (Bozeman, Montana)