By: EBS STAFF 

On Tuesday night, grizzly bear 399 was killed in a vehicle collision on Highway 26/89 in Snake River Canyon, south of Jackson, Wyoming. The famous female bear was the oldest known reproducing grizzly at 28 years of age and has been a well-known fixture in Grand Teton National Park. 

An Oct. 23 press release from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service updated the public on grizzly bear 399’s cub. “Grizzly bear 399 had a yearling cub with her, whose whereabouts are currently unknown. At this time, there is no evidence to suggest the yearling was also involved in the incident, but the Service is monitoring the area,” the release stated. 

The release explained that vehicle collisions with wildlife are not uncommon in the area and the service is collaborating with local and state agencies to learn more about the incident. 

“Wildlife vehicle collisions and conflict are unfortunate. We are thankful the driver is okay and understand the community is saddened to hear that grizzly bear 399 has died,” stated Angi Bruce, Wyoming Game and Fish Department Director, in the release. 

Chip Jenkins, Grand Teton National Park’s superintendent, acknowledged the late grizzly’s significance internationally. “The grizzly bear is an iconic species that helps make the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem so extraordinary. Grizzly bear 399 has been perhaps the most prominent ambassador for the species. She has inspired countless visitors into conservation stewardship around the world and will be missed,” Jenkins stated in the release. 

According to the Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team, 49 grizzlies died in vehicle collisions between 2009 and 2023 in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, with an average of 3.3 deaths per year. So far this year, two grizzlies, including grizzly 399, have died being struck by vehicles.