The tragic loss of Grizzly No. 399, a beloved and iconic bear that had captivated the hearts of visitors to Wyoming's Grand Teton National Park for nearly three decades, has sparked an outpouring of grief and remembrance. This remarkable creature, known as the "Queen of the Tetons," will be honored with a candlelight vigil in Jackson, where admirers from near and far will gather to celebrate her life and legacy.

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of a True Wilderness Ambassador

A Living Legend and Beloved Icon

Grizzly No. 399 was a true living legend, a symbol of the wild and untamed spirit of the American West. For nearly three decades, this remarkable bear had captured the imagination of visitors to Grand Teton National Park, becoming a beloved and iconic figure that embodied the park's natural wonders. With her ever-growing brood of cubs, Grizzly 399 was a constant presence in the lives of those who visited the park, and her story became intertwined with the very fabric of the Teton landscape.

An Ambassador for Her Species and Public Lands

Far more than just a beloved local celebrity, Grizzly 399 served as a powerful ambassador for her species and a rallying symbol for the conservation of America's public lands. Through her frequent appearances in the park's more foot-trafficked areas, she provided countless visitors with the opportunity to witness the majesty and grace of the grizzly bear up close, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of these magnificent creatures. Her story became a touchstone for those working to protect the delicate balance of the greater Yellowstone ecosystem, inspiring a new generation of conservationists to take up the mantle of stewardship.

A Remarkable Reproductive Legacy

Grizzly 399's impact on the grizzly bear population in the greater Yellowstone ecosystem cannot be overstated. As the oldest known reproducing female grizzly in the region, she was single-handedly credited with helping the population grow from just over 100 in the 1970s to around 1,000 today. Over the course of her 28-year lifespan, Grizzly 399 gave birth to an astounding 18 cubs in eight separate litters, many of whom have gone on to have cubs of their own, ensuring the continued vitality of the species in the Tetons.

A Tragic and Untimely Demise

The circumstances surrounding Grizzly 399's untimely death have only served to deepen the sense of loss felt by her admirers. On October 22nd, the beloved bear was fatally struck by a car on Highway 29/28, just 40 miles south of her usual habitat in the park. Experts believe that the rising temperatures and the resulting scarcity of huckleberry bushes may have driven Grizzly 399 to wander outside of her normal range, leading to the tragic collision.

A Vigil to Honor a Legend

In the wake of Grizzly 399's passing, a public vigil has been organized in Jackson, Wyoming, where dozens of mourners are expected to brave the cold temperatures to pay their respects to this remarkable bear. The ceremony, which will feature songs and shared memories from wildlife photographers, locals, and biologists who knew Grizzly 399 intimately, is a testament to the profound impact she had on the lives of those who were fortunate enough to encounter her.Even more viewers are expected to tune in online, as the world mourns the loss of a true icon of the American wilderness. Grizzly 399's ashes have been spread in the Pilgrim Creek area of the Grand Teton National Park, ensuring that her spirit will forever be a part of this special place. As the park's superintendent, Chip Jenkins, eloquently stated, "399 will always be part of this special place. 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."