GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK – A tribute fit for a queen. Grizzly bear 399, known as the Queen of the Tetons, has been cremated, with her ashes returned to the Pilgrim Creek area of Grand Teton National Park where she spent much of her long life with her cubs.
The famous mama bear was killed in a vehicle collision on Oct. 22. Officials say the driver, who was returning home from work, swerved to avoid her yearling cub, striking the mother bear instead. Her cub, affectionately known as Spirit, is believed to have survived with no indication that he was struck. Due to his age and the time of the season, the NPS says his odds of surviving on his own are good.
Since the accident, a makeshift memorial in the nearby town of Jackson Hole has filled with cards, flowers and drawings from children. And wildlife officials say they’ve received many tributes from the public.
“Grizzly bear 399 captivated people around the world, inspiring many to learn about the conservation of this important species,” said Hilary Cooley, Grizzly Bear Recovery Coordinator for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. “We received an outpouring of appreciation for 399 and aimed to honor these sentiments in handling her remains.”
“399 will always be part of this special place,” said Grand Teton National Park Superintendent Chip Jenkins. “However, there is still work to do to ensure her descendants and all grizzly bears continue to thrive in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. It’s up to all of us to make sure they do.”
