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Grizzly 399's Cub Killed by Vehicle in Grand Teton National Park

3 days ago

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Executive Summary

  • Grizzly 1058, a 5-year-old male cub of Grizzly 399, was killed by a vehicle in Grand Teton National Park.
  • This is the second cub from Grizzly 399's famous litter of four to die due to human-related causes, and the third of her offspring to be killed in a vehicle collision.
  • Park officials are urging the public to be cautious and aware of wildlife while driving in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, emphasizing the importance of obeying speed limits and reporting collisions.

Event Overview

Grizzly 1058, a 5-year-old male offspring of the well-known Grizzly 399, was discovered deceased in Grand Teton National Park on May 6th. The cause of death was determined to be a vehicle strike. The bear's body was found approximately 125 yards from U.S. Highway 26, east of the Buffalo Fork River, suggesting it succumbed to its injuries after moving away from the road. The incident has raised concerns about wildlife safety in the area, especially following the death of Grizzly 399 herself in a similar collision in October of the previous year.

Media Coverage Comparison

Source Key Angle / Focus Unique Details Mentioned Tone
East Idaho News Initial reporting on the discovery of Grizzly 1058's body and the investigation. Provides the phone number for the Teton Interagency Dispatch Center to report wildlife-vehicle collisions. Notes that the bear's remains were put back onto the landscape. Informative and concerned.
USA TODAY Highlighting the connection to Grizzly 399 and the bear's fame. Mentions the PBS documentary "Grizzly 399: Queen of the Tetons" featuring Grizzly 1058. Sentimental and commemorative.
jhnewsandguide.com Contextualizing the death within the larger history of human impact on Grizzly 399's offspring. Reports that 11 of Grizzly 399's 18 cubs have died, mostly in conflicts with humans. Provides data on grizzly bear deaths in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, including vehicle strikes and other causes. Sober and critical, with a focus on human responsibility.
Buckrail Providing immediate updates and safety reminders for drivers. Reiterates guidelines for drivers in Grand Teton National Park, including speed limits and reporting collisions. Notes that the bear was identified using ear tags and a tracking tag. Urgent and informative.

Key Details & Data Points

  • What: Grizzly 1058, a 5-year-old male grizzly bear and offspring of Grizzly 399, was killed by a vehicle on Highway 26 in Grand Teton National Park.
  • Who: Key individuals: Grizzly 1058 (deceased bear), Grizzly 399 (mother), Savannah Rose (wildlife photographer). Key organizations: Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming Game and Fish Department, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
  • When: The incident occurred possibly several days before Tuesday, May 6, when the body was discovered. Grizzly 399 died in October of the previous year.
  • Where: The incident occurred on U.S. Highway 26 east of the Buffalo Fork River, within the boundaries of Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming.

Key Statistics:

  • Key statistic 1: 5 years old (age of Grizzly 1058 at the time of death)
  • Key statistic 2: 125 yards (distance Grizzly 1058 traveled from the road before dying)
  • Key statistic 3: 11 out of 18 (number of Grizzly 399's cubs that have died, mostly due to human causes)

Analysis & Context

The death of Grizzly 1058 highlights the ongoing challenges of balancing wildlife conservation with human activity in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. The fact that both Grizzly 399 and now one of her offspring have died due to vehicle collisions underscores the need for increased vigilance and potentially stricter regulations regarding speed limits and traffic management in critical wildlife habitats. The incident is likely to fuel further debate about the impact of tourism and development on the region's grizzly bear population. The high number of deaths among Grizzly 399's cubs, many due to human-related causes, raises concerns about the long-term viability of this iconic bear family and the broader grizzly population.

Notable Quotes

I honestly feel like I got punched in the stomach.
— Savannah Rose, a photographer who chronicles Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem wildlife (jhnewsandguide.com)
Rest in peace 1058, son of 399, my favorite of the quads. You were so full of life and independence. Cut down before your time like your mother, struck by a vehicle. 399, I am so sorry we failed you again.
— Savannah Rose, wildlife photographer (Facebook post reported by jhnewsandguide.com)
We need to do better.
— Savannah Rose, wildlife photographer (Facebook post reported by jhnewsandguide.com)

Conclusion

The death of Grizzly 1058 is a tragic reminder of the dangers faced by wildlife in areas with high levels of human activity. The incident has reignited discussions about wildlife conservation and the need for drivers to exercise caution and adhere to speed limits in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. The investigation into the collision is ongoing, and it remains to be seen whether any charges will be filed. The loss of Grizzly 1058, following the death of his mother Grizzly 399, underscores the importance of ongoing efforts to protect the region's grizzly bear population and minimize human-wildlife conflict.

Disclaimer: This article was generated by an AI system that synthesizes information from multiple news sources. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy and objectivity, reporting nuances, potential biases, or errors from original sources may be reflected. The information presented here is for informational purposes and should be verified with primary sources, especially for critical decisions.