Although the grizzly bear originally claimed much of the North American continent, with the influx of settlers it was hunted to near extinction. The bears have been protected within Yellowstone National Park since 1886, but both grizzly and black bears have become dependent on people's food instead of hunting their natural food sources, such as elk, trout, or carcasses of big game which died through the harsh winter.

Sadly, the bears' dependency on human food such as leftovers in camp sites and even handouts from tourists along roadsides had created a dangerous situation for both the bears and the humans. Some people were injured, so some of the bears had to be destroyed each year.

Rangers now close the garbage dumps, teach campers to properly store food and strictly enforce regulations. These efforts have paid off and the bear population is once again wild and healthy.

Cubbings are now up and sightings indicate that the bears' overall numbers are stable or on a slight rise. But the grizzly is still classified as a threatened species.

Grizzly bears normally inhabit the higher elevations, and black bears usually stay within the dense forested areas and are more common in the park than the grizzly.

Remember: The only thing predictable about bears is their unpredictability!

Female bears with cubs, or bears defending a carcass are extremely dangerous, so stay alert!

NO FEEDING!

1. If you see a bear report the sighting to a park ranger ASAP.

2. Give any bear you see lots of room! Don't run or make abrupt movements or noises. If you can't detour away from the bear, wait until the bear leaves.

3. Hike in groups and make your presence known by making noise.

4. If you camp in the back country, never pick a site with evidence of bears such as tracks, digging, or scat. Keep your gear clean and food free and sleep at least 100 yards from your cooking area. Bearproof your food by by sealing it along with toothpaste, cosmetics and clothes worn while cooking inside plastic bags. Hang the bags at least 10 feet above the ground and at least four feet from any trunk or post.

5. Ask a park ranger before heading out about any recent bear sightings in the area you want to hike or camp in.

6. If you encounter bears along roadsides, keep your distance and don't be tempted to get closer for a better view or photo.