Wildlife

Grizzly Bear and Human Coexistence in North America

Grizzly bear populations are recovering in some areas of North America, creating both conservation success and new human-wildlife conflict challenges.

Key Facts

The lower-48 US grizzly population has grown from fewer than 400 to over 1,000
Grizzlies were reintroduced to Yellowstone and the Northern Rockies
Conflicts with livestock producers remain the primary source of mortality
Non-lethal deterrents including electric fencing have proven highly effective
Their delisting from the Endangered Species Act remains controversial

Welfare Considerations

Grizzlies killed in conflicts with humans often die from lethal removal or illegal killing, sometimes after prolonged suffering from trapping. Orphaned cubs face reduced survival. Conflict reduction programs using bear-resistant food storage, electric fencing, and livestock guardian dogs allow bears and humans to coexist with fewer lethal outcomes.

What You Can Do

Use bear-resistant containers when camping in grizzly country
Support livestock producers adopting non-lethal bear deterrents
Advocate for maintaining grizzly bear protections under the ESA
Donate to grizzly conservation and coexistence programs
Learn to recreate safely in bear country