MOOSE, Wyo. — On May 5, an adult female grizzly bear believed to be 610 with three yearling cubs was observed between Signal Mountain and the Jackson Lake Dam acting lethargic and displaying abnormal behavior.
According to Justin Schwabedissen, bear biologist for Grand Teton National Park (GTNP), the bear believed to be 610 appeared lethargic and was bedding down near and on the road. She had no external signs of physical injury and no evidence this abnormal behavior was human-caused.
“One plausible explanation is that the adult female grizzly just emerged from the den and is still recovering from the physiological effects of hibernation,” Schwabedissen said. “Currently, we believe this ‘walking hibernation’ state to be the likely cause of the lethargic behavior; however, we cannot rule out disease at this time.”
Schwabedissen said the family of grizzlies was most recently seen on Monday evening, where the bear believed to be 610 appeared less lethargic, nursing her cubs and foraging.
“Park staff will continue to monitor and assess her condition,” Schwabedissen said.
While wildlife management and park staff believe this bear to be 610, GTNP cannot confirm with certainty.
GTNP recommends people should always stay at least 100 yards away from bears. Feeding any wildlife is illegal while in the park.
