JACKSON, Wyo. — In late August and into the fall, berries are plentiful along popular trails in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE). But where there are berries, there are also bears.
As fall approaches, bears enter a state of hyperphagia during the fall months, during which they eat heartily to put on weight for winter hibernation. During hyperphagia, bears are very active, seeking out food sources. According to the North American Bear Center, black bears can ingest 15,000 to 20,000 calories per day during hyperphagia. Residents and visitors should be extra diligent about securing attractants, including bird feeders, pet food, livestock feed, compost, BBQ grills and garbage.
The GYE is home to a number of edible berry species, most notably huckleberries, wild raspberries, serviceberries and thimbleberries. Both humans and wildlife, including bears, enjoy eating these species, so it is important that berry pickers be aware of their surroundings, make noise and carry bear spray.
While many berries are edible and delicious, the GYE is also home to a number of poisonous species. Those unfamiliar with all the varieties can easily make the wrong choices. Visitors should be certain of the species and its edibility before consuming it. Reputable guidebooks can help with species identification.
Bridger-Teton National Forest is a popular destination for huckleberry foraging. When picking berries there, remember that berries may only be harvested for personal use, and hand-picking is encouraged.
Grand Teton National Park also allows berry harvesting, but the park limits berry picking to one quart/per species/per person/per day. This is an exception to its usual “Leave No Trace” ordinances, and the park reminds visitors that picking or removing items such as wildflowers, mushrooms, archaeological artifacts, rocks, antlers, skulls or other animal parts is prohibited.
When foraging for berries in a wild space, use extra caution. Never approach a berry patch where animals are present. Stay at least 100 yards away from bears.
