Remembering Grizzly 399: A Legacy and a Call for Protection
Grizzly 399 passed away six weeks ago after being struck by a car in the Snake River canyon. But, it was more than a bear that passed away. In an important way, it was also a dream and a hope that passed away. So many people have visited Grand Teton just to have a chance to see 399 and the various groupings of cubs that she paraded by the highway for so many years. Many people have returned year after year to maintain their unique correspondence with 399 and what it means to be wild. She was Wild America. She was the beauty of nature. She was friend-shaped, and brought delight to many thousands who were lucky enough to see her over the years. She roamed the whole park and roamed through our whole hearts. Just by being, she helped awaken people to the idea that we could enjoy and co-exist with wild places. And now she is gone. But with hard work perhaps people can allow the idea of her…the dream of her… to continue in a way that will benefit all the wildlife here and perhaps even throughout the country.
A Tragic Loss, a Renewed Conversation
Sadly, her death underscores the dangers our magnificent wildlife face as they navigate the increasingly populated landscapes around our National Parks. Traffic, urban development, and fractured migration routes are critical issues for wildlife, and put animals like grizzlies (as well as moose, antelope, elk, raptors, you name it) at heightened risk. The tragedy of her loss should open an important dialogue about how we can protect our remaining open spaces and the wildlife that share these spaces with us.
One solution for reducing wildlife mortality is to implement safe crossings, such as overpasses and underpasses, that allow animals to travel freely without endangering themselves or people. Studies have shown that these structures can reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions by up to 90%. Incorporating these crossings in key areas would honor the memory of Grizzly 399 and provide a practical step toward protecting the wildlife that makes places like Grand Teton National Park so unique. Possible locations for underpasses could be north of Gros Ventre Junction; at the Ditch Creek crossing by Blacktail Butte — merely enlarge the culvert; and at the Deadman’s Bar turnoff at the Burnt Ridge Moraine. Overpass locations might be useful by the hay fields just south of the Moran entrance station and at several points in the Snake River canyon, which sees a high wildlife migration volume.
A Path Forward in Conservation
As we say goodbye to Grizzly 399, let’s channel our grief into advocacy. By investing in protective infrastructure and policies, we can help create a safer coexistence between humans and wildlife. It’s up to us to ensure her legacy lives on through meaningful actions that honor the wild places she called home. If dreams and hope can spur us into meaningful action, our wildlife, our children, and our vehicles will thank us.
