Grand Teton NP Clarifies Supt's Compendium for Wildlife Protection & Public Safety

Bear #610  has twice charged people

while they were standing on their car roof.

Two small cubs race between cars to follow their mother,
who moments before squeezed through parked cars.

Bears are often forced to weave through crowded areas
with cars and people as they try to cross park roads.

July 27, 2011
11-60
Grand Teton National Park Superintendent Mary Gibson Scott today authorized a clarification of the 2011 Superintendent’s Compendium to more clearly describe regulations for safe wildlife viewing and allowable distances between visitors and wildlife. The clarification was prompted by the increased size and complexity of “wildlife jams” associated with the presence of grizzly bears near park roadways.

A long-standing provision of the compendium required that visitors keep a specified distance from wildlife. This historic provision was based upon determinations by previous superintendents that such limitations were necessary for the protection of wildlife and the safety of visitors. The allowable distance between visitors and wildlife has been defined as 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from other animals, including nesting birds. The current compendium maintains those distances, but provides improved clarity to the rule by eliminating language that was ambiguous or unclear. The compendium now states, “The following activities
are prohibited:

a)   Willfully approaching, remaining, viewing, or engaging in any activity within 100 yards of bears or wolves, or within 25 yards of any other wildlife including nesting birds; or within any distance that disturbs, displaces or otherwise interferes with the free unimpeded movement of wildlife, or creates or contributes to a potentially hazardous condition or situation.

b)   Failure to remove one’s self to prescribed distances during inadvertent, accidental, casual or surprise encounters with wildlife.

c)   Failure to comply as directed by NPS staff (employees, volunteers, or agents) engaged in administering wildlife management operations or managing wildlife viewing opportunities.”

The appearance this year of grizzly bears #399 and #610 and their collective five cubs creates unprecedented opportunities for park visitors to view superb wildlife; these opportunities also increase appreciation for animals and national park values. At the same time, the tremendous interest in viewing these bears and other wildlife has resulted in large wildlife jams and caused situations where the well being of both visitors and animals may be in jeopardy. Wildlife viewing opportunities—and wildlife jams in particular—can be very fluid situations due to the unpredictable behavior and movement of animals, the ebb and flow of traffic, and other factors. After a bear charged two different vehicles on two separate occasions while people stood on their car roof, park managers recognized the need to more strictly enforce the established regulations for wildlife viewing to better secure the protection of animals and ensure visitor safety.

While Grand Teton provides remarkable opportunities for visitors to experience and enjoy wildlife and other resources, park managers must also establish conditions that allow sufficient and appropriate space in which individual animals can move unencumbered as they search for food and other critical needs.

Rare Grizzly Bear Cub Exchange Observed

Grizzly bear #610 watches as one of her cubs climbs a tree.

Photo by Gary Pollock

July 25, 2011
11-59 

Grand Teton National Park biologists report that an interesting turn of events occurred late last week when two female grizzly bears apparently “exchanged” one cub with one another. The two female grizzlies are related (mother and daughter), and have occupied overlapping home ranges since they both emerged from hibernation with their newborn cubs this past spring. The adoption or fostering of cubs between two female bears is rare, but not unprecedented. This behavior was documented in an article written by Mark A. Haroldson, Kerry A. Gunther, and Travis Wyman in a Yellowstone Science 2008 publication.

Fifteen-year-old grizzly bear #399 (a research number assigned to her in 2001) gave birth to three cubs during hibernation this past winter. Over the spring and summer months, she has traveled with her trio of cubs throughout a home range that she has occupied for several years. Five-year-old grizzly bear #610, born to #399 in 2006, also gave birth to two cubs of her own this year. These two female grizzly bears were previously radio-collared as part of a decades-long research study conducted by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team. Bear #399 last wore a collar in 2006 and #610 shed her collar in 2010. Colored ear-tags remain on the bears, providing continued identification in the field.

The apparent adoption of a single cub occurred on or about July 21; the noteworthy event was confirmed by observations of  #610 traveling with three cubs in the Willow Flats area of Grand Teton National Park, and later observations of  #399 with just two cubs in an area further north of Willow Flats.

Biologists are not sure what caused the exchange of offspring, or whether this will be a temporary or permanent situation. However, these observations offer a fascinating glimpse into bear behavior. Scientists speculate that cub adoption in bears is an adaptive behavior that increases cub survival when they become separated from their mothers as a result of conflicts with other bears, the death of a mother, or other disruptive events.

The two female grizzly bears and their respective cubs have lingered near park roads over several months time, allowing visitors and local residents an exceptional opportunity to view wild bears in their natural environment.

Park managers remind wildlife watchers that all park bears are wild and unpredictable. For the protection of bears and for the safety of visitors, federal regulations require people to remain at least 100 yards (the length of a football field) from bears at all times. 

Park Supports Bear Spray Recycle Program

July 5, 2011
11-55
Grand Teton National Park is proud to announce its participation in a new sustainability effort that recycles a specialized item commonly used in bear country: bear spray. In coordination, with other federal partners at Yellowstone National Park, the National Elk Refuge and surrounding national forests, Grand Teton recently placed collection bins at several locations to gather unwanted bear spray canisters and prepare them for recycling.   

Millions of people visit  the Greater Yellowstone Area each year, and thousands of bear spray canisters—used and unused—are disposed of in trash containers because they are not allowed on commercial flights, or visitors no longer have a need for the spray after they leave the area. These bear spray canisters enter the waste stream, causing a serious environmental concern. In addition, waste disposal workers are exposed to accidental discharge of pepper-laced propellant at disposal sites. To correct this problem, a new recycling center was established this year in Yellowstone.

The effort to curb the growing number of bear spray canisters in landfills emerged two years ago, when Yellowstone park managers and the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality agreed that a recycling project could resolve this issue. The solution came from three Montana State University (MSU) engineering students who designed a machine that removes the pepper oil and propellant before it crushes the canister. The recycling unit is able to extract all contents through a filtering process that safely separates the ingredients. The empty canisters are then punctured, flattened and sold to any recycling center as high quality aluminum.

Using the principles that were developed by the MSU students, a Montana-based manufacturing firm produced the first-of-its-kind canister recycling unit. The recycling unit, located at Mammoth in Yellowstone, began operating this spring. To fund manufacture of the specialized unit, donations were secured from the Greater Yellowstone Area business community.

"As National Park Service employees, we have a responsibility to be on the forefront of sustainable environmental practices, and we’re proud to join our federal partners in this recycling effort: an effort that has positive impacts across the Greater Yellowstone Area,” said Superintendent Mary Gibson Scott. “Grand Teton park personnel will take the lead in transporting canisters from collection sites within the greater Jackson area to the specialized recycling unit located in Yellowstone.”

Collection sites within Grand Teton National Park include: Colter Bay Visitor Center, Colter Bay Cabins, Jackson Lake Lodge, Jenny Lake Ranger Station, Jenny Lake Visitor Center, Gros Ventre Campground, Signal Mountain Lodge, and the Craig Thomas Discovery Visitor Center. Collection sites are also located at the Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center at the National Elk Refuge and Teton County Recycling at 3270 South Adams Canyon Road. In addition, collection sites are located at several private businesses, and at the Jackson Hole Airport beginning July 15.

Yellowstone is accepting bear spray canisters at most hotels, stores and at all park entrances.

Baxter’s Pinnacle and Southwest Descent Gully Closed for Nesting Peregrine Falcons

Climbers on Baxter's Pinnacle
Photo Coutesy of Landon Wiedenman

June 24, 2011
11-49
Grand Teton National Park Superintendent Mary Gibson Scott announced that beginning Friday, June 24, Baxter’s Pinnacle and its southwest descent gully are closed due to a peregrine falcon aerie. Baxter’s Pinnacle is a popular climbing route in Cascade Canyon. This closure is in effect to protect both climbers and the falcons.

Peregrines are territorial and aggressive birds especially while nesting. Grand Teton wildlife biologists have received reports, and witnessed near misses, of this peregrine pair dive-bombing climbers on the route and in the descent gully. Baxter’s Pinnacle will remain closed until the young birds have fledged or biologists determine there is no longer a risk to either climbers or the falcons. A nearby climb called No Perches Necessary remains open.

The peregrine falcon is among the world’s fastest birds, flying at 40-55 mph and diving at more than 200 mph while defending territory or striking prey. This poses a safety risk to climbers who could be knocked off the route and injured. Peregrine falcons are particularly sensitive to human disturbance and will abandon their nests to defend their territory. This can lead to nest failure and low reproductive success. The especially aggressive behavior of this falcon pair concerned Grand Teton’s wildlife biologists.

“The aggressive behavior shows us that this peregrine pair feels threatened by climbers near their nest site,” said Grand Teton Wildlife Biologist Sue Wolff. “We want to keep climbers safe and increase the chances for a successful aerie.”

Peregrines were delisted from the endangered species list in 1999, but remain a species of concern in Grand Teton National Park where only three other nesting pairs exist.

Seasonal and temporary closures for wildlife protection are common in Grand Teton to protect both wildlife and park users. Entering a posted wildlife closure is a violation under the code of federal regulations that can result in a citation and fine.

Grizzly Bear Research Trapping Begins in GTNP Public Advised to Heed Posted Warning Signs

June 2, 2011
11-38

Wildlife biologists with the Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team (IGBST) will begin trapping operations in Grand Teton National Park to capture grizzly bears and gather data for research purposes. These operations will begin June 8th and continue through the end of July. To alert the public of these trapping operations, warning signs will be posted at major access points where capture activities are underway. It is critical that all members of the public heed the warning signs and remain well away from the posted areas.

Trapping operations are a part of ongoing efforts required under the Endangered Species Act to monitor the population of grizzly bears in the Yellowstone Ecosystem. Monitoring of grizzly bear distribution and other activities are vital to recovery of grizzlies across the Yellowstone Ecosystem. 

To attract bears, biologists utilize natural food sources such as fresh road–killed deer and elk.  Potential trapping sites are baited with these natural foods, and if indications are that grizzly bears are in the area, culvert traps will be used to capture the bears. Once trapped, the bears are sedated and studied in accordance with strict protocols developed by the IGBST.

Whenever bear trapping activities are being conducted for scientific purposes, the area around the site will be closed to public entry and posted with bright warning signs. These signs are posted along the major access points to the trapping site. It is important that the public comply with the closure signs and not venture into an area that has been posted. 

For more information regarding grizzly bear trapping, call IGBST at 406.994.6675 or Grand Teton National Park at 307.739.3393.

Park Officials Troubled by Increase in Wildlife-Vehicle Collisions

Over 160 animals were hit & killed by vehicles on park roads in 2010.

May 24, 2011
11-36

Grand Teton National Park plans to redouble efforts to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions on park roads. Each year, motor vehicles cause the deaths of well over 100 animals, resulting in a significant toll to park wildlife. Over the past few years, park rangers and biologists have documented trends related to wildlife-vehicle collisions in an attempt to make park roads safer for both people and animals.

Since 2000, the number of animals killed on park roads has steadily increased. In fact, a 31% rise in wildlife-vehicle collisions occurred between 2008 and 2010. While an average of 104 animals are killed annually on park roads, an unparalleled 162 vehicle-caused deaths were tallied in 2010 alone. Included in the 2010 data were 48 elk,
41 deer, 17 bison, 6 pronghorn, 5 moose, 5 bears, and 2 wolves. Park biologists believe this tally is likely higher as some collisions are never reported. This unprecedented increase in vehicle-caused wildlife deaths came despite a proactive education/ prevention campaign launched in 2006.

Records of wildlife-vehicle collisions indicate certain trends and patterns. Statistics show that most of the accidents occurred between dawn and dusk along Highway 26/89/191 between Moose and Moran junctions where the speed limit is posted as 55 mph. A number of collisions also occurred between the Gros Ventre River Bridge and Jackson Hole Airport Junction. Drivers involved in wildlife collisions were almost equally as often local residents as they were out-of-state visitors; most commonly the drivers were males traveling alone or with one passenger. Speed was often the biggest factor in these collisions, particularly at night when drivers exceeded the range of their headlights. Motorists who overdrive their high beams—when the stopping distance is greater than the headlight illumination distance—are less able to stop or slow down with the sudden appearance of an animal on the road. Drivers are cautioned to observe posted speed limits and even reduce their speed, especially at night.

Park managers plan to implement new prevention measures in an effort to reverse the recent trend in animal deaths from vehicle collisions. Flashing message boards will be placed at various wildlife crossings and collision hotspots; and stationary signs will be posted at seasonally active areas. In addition, the Highway 26/89/191 speed limit will be reduced to 45 mph from the park’s south boundary to Moose Junction while construction of the multi-use pathway is underway. During this same time, park staff will closely monitor wildlife-vehicle collisions to determine if there is a related decline in animal deaths. Data collected will inform future decisions about possible actions that can be taken to control traffic, such as seasonal speed limits to slow vehicles during wildlife migrations on Highway 89 in Grand Teton National Park. Rangers may also increase patrols to educate motorists about being alert for wildlife and enforce speed limits.

Park roads wind through expansive sagebrush flats—and through some of best habitat in the country for elk, deer, bison, pronghorn, moose and bears. The same conditions that make Grand Teton a global destination for wildlife-viewing also make it a challenge for wildlife-vehicle collisions as animals regularly cross and travel near park roads. Park officials remind motorists to stay alert, slow down and give wildlife a break—especially during low-light conditions from dusk to dawn when animals may be difficult to see. Drivers should expect the unexpected with regard to wildlife that travel near and across park roads.

The reduction of vehicle-caused wildlife deaths is everyone’s responsibility.

Stefan Ekernas Receives 2011 Boyd Evison Graduate Fellowship

Stefan Ekernas awarded 2011 Boyd Evison Graduate Fellowship.

April 28, 2011

11-26

Grand Teton National Park and the Grand Teton Association (GTA) are pleased to announce that Stefan Ekernas has received the Boyd Evison Graduate Fellowship for 2011. Ekernas, the seventh recipient of an Evison Fellowship, is currently pursuing a Ph.D. degree in Wildlife Biology at the University of Montana in Missoula. He plans to use his fellowship award to study the impacts of climate change on food webs in the southern Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE), looking specifically at white-tailed jackrabbits (Lepus townsendii) and pronghorn (Antilocapra Americana). The Evison Graduate Fellowship began in 2005 to support studies throughout the Greater Yellowstone Area.

Ekernas received a Bachelor of Arts in Government from Dartmouth College in 2001, a Master of Arts in Conservation Biology from Columbia University in 2005, and a Master of Science in Organismal Biology and Ecology from the University of Montana in 2010. He served as research director for WildMetro, a non-profit group in New York City focused on urban ecology, and he worked as an adjunct lecturer at Baruch College in Manhattan. Prior to moving to Montana, he worked as a research associate at Christian Medical College in Tamil Nadu, India. His past research focused on the effects of urbanization on small mammal communities in New York City, and the interface between conservation and public health in India.

Ekernas’ research in the GYE will focus on both food webs and climate change as he seeks to investigate species interactions within and beyond protected areas. He and his team will explore the relationships between white-tailed jackrabbits, wolves, coyotes, and pronghorn—with a specific focus on jackrabbits and pronghorns.  A key member of the food web, jackrabbits have already disappeared from parts of the ecosystem. To investigate the impacts of climate change on food webs, Ekernas will look at the relationship between decrease in snowpack and jackrabbit population. When completed, he will make his findings available to Grand Teton and to the public. He also intends to give public lectures as his research progresses.
        

The Evison Fellowship was established in memory of Boyd Evison after his death in October, 2002, and created to honor Boyd’s extensive and dedicated service to both the National Park Service (NPS) and the GTA. Evison retired in 1994 from an exemplary 42-year career with the NPS and soon after began a second career as executive director for the GTA—a non-profit park partner dedicated to aiding interpretive, educational, and research programs for Grand Teton National Park.

The Evison Fellowship program encourages scientific and conservation-related research in national parks. It invites highly motivated, graduate students to conduct research in Grand Teton and throughout the Greater Yellowstone Area; and it supports study leading to a master’s or Ph.D. degree in the biosciences, geosciences or social sciences. Upon program completion, Evison recipients provide a copy of their thesis to the GTA and often share their results through oral presentations to park staff and partners.

An Evison Fellowship provides tuition assistance and a yearly stipend to cover travel and field research costs; Grand Teton National Park offers housing and office space for students during field sessions. To inquire about applying for a Boyd Evison Graduate Fellowship—or to donate funds toward this worthy program—please contact Jan Lynch, executive director, Grand Teton Association by mail at P.O. Box 170, Moose, Wyoming, 83012, or by phone at 307.739.3406.

Celebrate Nat'l Park Week & View Sage Grouse

Male sage grouse display & strut during their annual mating dance.

April 12, 2011
11-16

To celebrate the arrival of spring and National Park Week, park ranger naturalists will lead early-morning tours to observe strutting sage grouse as they perform their annual mating dance on an historic lek (strutting arena) located just off the Antelope Flats Road near Mormon Row. Strutting grouse trips will be offered on both Saturdays and Sundays of the following weekends: April 16–17,
April 23–24, and April 30–May 1, 2011.

Strutting grouse tours begin from the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center at 5:30 a.m. Reservations are required; to obtain information about what to wear and bring along on these free, ranger-led trips and make a reservation, call 307.739.3399.

Ranger-led excursions offer a unique opportunity to witness this spring-time ritual, as sage grouse congregate and perform animated mating displays. As participants view the antics of strutting grouse, rangers will provide information about their natural history and conservation efforts underway for sage grouse populations that are declining throughout much of the American West.

National Park Week is slated for April 16-24, and sage grouse tours are just one of many opportunities to connect with this year's theme, “Healthy Parks, Healthy People.”  The 2011 motto highlights the connection between human and environmental health and the vital role that America's national parks play in both. National Park Week also salutes the individuals, groups and associations that help make the National Park System one of America’s greatest assets.  

To highlight National Park Week, Grand Teton National Park—along with the entire 394 national park units across America—will waive entrance fees throughout the week. A seven-day pass to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park is normally $25 for a private vehicle.

Additional information about National Park Week is available on the National Park Service website at www.nps.gov/npweek .

Male Black Bear Euthanized in Grand Teton NP

Black bear forages on naturally occuring berries
along Moose-Wilson Road

November 1, 2010

10-96

Grand Teton National Park officials euthanized a male black bear on Friday, October 29, out of concern for public safety. The bear gained entry into the main lodge building at Triangle X Ranch on Tuesday evening, October 26, and tracks indicated that it also visited and “nosed around” several other cabins on the property.  It returned to the ranch attempting to get inside the main lodge on Wednesday evening as well as Thursday night, when it was captured in a culvert trap. The bear damaged a portion of the lodge roof in its attempts to gain entry into the building, received food rewards, and appeared to have little concern for the presence of humans and their activities at the ranch. This human-food conditioned and habituated behavior forced park officials to make the difficult decision to remove the bear from the population in order to reduce future threats to people and their safety.

The eight to ten-year-old black bear weighed 177 pounds, but was slightly underweight. The bear’s history and previous habits are unknown; it did not have ear tags or other identification that would mark it as a previously captured bear. However, a bear with a similar description got into a dumpster at Dornan’s earlier this year. Park officials are following up with Triangle X Ranch representatives to determine why the bear received food rewards and to mitigate any identified problems.

After transporting the captured bear to park headquarters to gather information on its physical condition (weight, tooth wear, blood samples, etc.), park biologist discovered that both the trap and the bear were inexplicably coated with bear spray. Park rangers subsequently questioned ranch managers about this situation and learned that one of the ranch employees disobeyed an agreement to not approach the trap, and also discharged a canister of bear spray at the animal early Thursday morning while it was confined in the trap. An investigation into this incident is ongoing; however, the individual ranch employee was issued a mandatory court appearance for cruelty to animals and will appear before the federal magistrate on these charges.

This is the only bear euthanized in Grand Teton National Park this year. In fact, park rangers and biologists did not capture or taken any management actions on bears—black or grizzly—during the past year. The availability and relative abundance of naturally occurring berries may have helped to keep bears in undeveloped portions of the park and away from developed areas and human food sources.

Once a bear acquires human food, it often loses its fear of people and may become dangerous. Park officials strongly remind local residents and visitors that proper storage of food items and disposal of garbage is extremely important. Thoughtless actions of people can literally lead to a life or death situation for bears that easily become corrupted by the availability of human food and garbage. Human carelessness doesn’t just endanger people; it can also result in a bear’s death.

Bears roam near park developments and throughout the backcountry. Consequently, for the health and safety of bears and people, park visitors and local residents must adhere to food storage rules. Detailed information about how to behave in bear country is available at park visitor centers or online at www.nps.gov/grte. With information and proper actions, people can help keep a bear from becoming human-food conditioned and possibly save its life.

Bear-resistant Food Storage Boxes Installed

Bear-resistant food storage boxes get installed
at Grand Teton campgrounds

October 21, 2010
10-91 

Superintendent Mary Gibson Scott announced today that
52 new bear-resistant food storage boxes were recently installed in Grand Teton National Park, thanks in part to financial support from the Grand Teton National Park Foundation (GTNPF) and concessioner franchise fees. Durable bear-resistant food boxes provide an important and convenient method for visitors to properly store human foods away from the reach of bears, and the acquisition of these sturdy boxes has been a high priority of the park’s bear management program for several years. To date, a total of 208 boxes have been purchased and placed at campgrounds and picnic areas located throughout the park. The latest boxes were installed at Flagg Ranch, Lizard Creek, Colter Bay and Signal Mountain campgrounds.

In an effort to help reduce human-bear conflicts, the GTNPF began a target campaign in 2008 to secure money for the purchase of food storage boxes; the Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting Grand Teton National Park by raising funds for special programs and projects. In addition, the Grand Teton Lodge Company, an authorized park concessioner, supplied further funding in 2008 through a campground improvement program required under their concessions contract. Other funding was supplied by the National Park Service through concessioner franchise fees.

More than 3.5 million visitors come to Grand Teton each year—most during the summer months—and thousands of them picnic or stay overnight at one of the park’s 1,230 campsites. Rangers document almost daily violations of food storage regulations by careless or uninformed visitors during the course of the tourist season. Although overall compliance with food storage regulations is high, it only takes one incident of a bear obtaining food for it to get “human food-conditioned” and become a potential nuisance bear. For public safety reasons, it often becomes necessary to euthanize food-conditioned bears.

Proper food storage is vital to prevent bears from becoming human food-conditioned as they search for available food sources throughout the park; however, nearly 75% of the park’s front country campsites lack these important food storage containers. The park has identified approximately 800 front country sites that are suitable for the placement of bear-resistant food storage boxes. By being widely available for visitors to use, these boxes can prevent bears from becoming food-conditioned and better ensure that they remain wild, naturally foraging animals.

Bear-resistant food storage boxes cost approximately $1,100 each. The GTNPF donors have generously provided funding for 94 boxes since their bear box campaign began in 2008. The generosity of individual GTNPF donors is often acknowledged though the placement of recognition plaques on a particular box. For further information about the bear box campaign, contact Leslie Mattson at 307.732.0629, or email leslie@gtnpf.org.

Black Bear Cub Killed by Vehicle in Grand Teton

September 17, 2010
10-84
A female black bear cub was hit and killed by a motorist about
10 p.m. Wednesday, September 15, on Highway 26/89/191 just north of the junction for Meadow Road in Grand Teton National Park. The young cub of the year was following its mother and a sibling cub across the highway when it was hit by a resident of Moran, Wyoming.

The local driver reported the incident and waited on scene for the arrival of a park ranger. According to the Code of Federal Regulations, a motor vehicle operator is required to report an accident involving property damage, personal injury, or death—which includes the injury or death of wildlife. The driver told the ranger that he swerved to avoid the animals crossing the road, but hit the cub that was the last in line.

This is the second bear fatality caused by a vehicle on park roads this year. In early June, a 3 1/2-year-old male grizzly bear was hit and killed on Highway 89/191 just south of the Spread Creek Bridge. Three other incidents involving vehicles hitting bears have also been reported this summer. On August 13, a black bear cub was hit on Highway 89/191 near the Snake River Overlook, but it ran away and its welfare after the accident is unknown. Two other bears (unverified species) were hit by vehicles: one incident occurred on July 26 near Pilgrim Creek Road, and the other happened August 19 south of the Triangle X Ranch. In both cases, the bears ran away from the accident scene with unknown injuries.

Each year in Grand Teton, an average of one or more bears (grizzly and/or black bears) are involved in vehicle collisions that result in the injury or death of the animal. In the past five years, vehicle-related deaths of bears include: 2006, one black bear; 2007, two black bears and one grizzly bear cub; 2009, one black bear; and 2010, one grizzly bear, one black bear cub, and one black bear cub and two other bears (unverified species) that were injured but left the scene.

These encounters between vehicles and bears —among other wildlife accidents—serve as a reminder that animals actively cross and use park roads. Motorists are reminded to drive the posted speed limit and be prepared to stop suddenly for wildlife along or on park roadways. Driving slower than indicated speed limits—especially at night—can increase the margin of safety for people and animals. Collisions between motor vehicles and wildlife may result in severe damage to a vehicle, serious or fatal injuries to the occupants of that vehicle, and/or death for the animal involved.

In addition to bears, other wildlife such as wolves, elk, moose, bison, deer, pronghorn antelope, as well as smaller creatures such as beavers, marmots, and porcupines may also be encountered on or near park roads. Many of these animals have been killed by vehicle collisions during the past few months. As of the first week of August, a total of 107 animals have been hit and killed on park roads, compared to 71 animals killed during the same period in 2009.

More than 35 animals have been killed this year compared to last and the fall migration has yet to begin. Wildlife mortalities from vehicles generally increase during the fall and spring migration of large animals such as elk, bison, moose and deer.

Vehicles take a significant toll on park wildlife, resulting in the deaths of well over 100 animals per year.

Spread Creek Dam to be Removed

Spread Creek dam is slated to be removed
to reconnect about 50 miles of native trout habitat

August 27, 2010
10-76
Superintendent Mary Gibson Scott is pleased to announce that Grand Teton National Park, in partnership with Trout Unlimited (TU), will begin a project to remove the Spread Creek dam—a water diversion structure located on a tributary of the Upper Snake River that flows from the Bridger-Teton National Forest into the east boundary of the park. The project will reconnect approximately 50 miles of critical trout habitat along Spread Creek and allow for the natural movement of native cutthroat trout and other non-game fish that historically migrated through this waterway to spawn. This project involves the removal of the dam, installation of natural-design and fish-friendly rock weirs, and the restoration of stream channel contours and vegetation.

The Spread Creek diversion structure is managed by Grand Teton, but located on Bridger-Teton forest land. The National Park Service and Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WG&F) identified the dam as a priority for restoration activities because Spread Creek provides habitat for the Snake River fine-spotted cutthroat trout—a state and federally recognized sensitive species. For more than 40 years, the existing Spread Creek diversion dam has caused a year-round barrier to fish migration because it spans the width of the creek and blocks tributary spawning and rearing habitat for native fish such as cutthroat trout, mountain suckers and whitefish.

Grand Teton will work in partnership with TU, a nonprofit 501(c) (3) corporation dedicated to protecting, reconnecting, restoring and sustaining native trout habitat. TU’s Wyoming Water Project is securing the funding for the project and will oversee and conduct restoration activities, including the removal of the existing diversion structure, construction of a water delivery system, and restoration of the natural stream channel. Grand Teton staff and TU are working closely with stakeholder groups such as the WG&F, Bridger-Teton, and Triangle X and Moosehead ranches who are historic water users along with Grand Teton National Park.

This project involves removal of the dam by mechanical means. Workers will bury a portion of the old concrete edifice to help support a new irrigation infrastructure. In place of the dam, three rock weirs will be installed to maintain water level at a new headgate that will divert irrigation water to authorized users in the park. The weirs are designed to allow for native fish to either pass over or through the structures to access historic spawning and rearing areas. After the dam is removed and the rock weirs are in place, the Spread Creek channel will be reconstructed to establish its natural hydrology, which has been interrupted for decades. Restoration of the channel downstream of the rock weirs will reflect the natural elevation and contour of the streambed and encourage native re-vegetation.

“This is an historic step toward correcting a long-term disruption to fish migration and an important action for restoring Spread Creek’s hydrology,” said Superintendent Mary Gibson Scott. “We appreciate and applaud the work of Trout Unlimited and their funding partners in making this milestone project possible. We also appreciate the cooperation we’ve received from historic water users, Bridger-Teton National Forest staff and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department as we launch this project to improve critical fish habitat outside and inside Grand Teton National Park.”

Vehicle Collision Kills Gray Wolf in Grand Teton

A gray wolf pauses along a riverbank

August 3, 2010
10-60

A yearling male wolf was hit and killed by an unknown vehicle on Wednesday morning, August 4, just north of the Spread Creek Bridge on Highway 26/89/191 in Grand Teton National Park. The black-colored wolf, weighing about 50-60 pounds, was discovered by a passerby around 8 a.m. It was lying in the middle of the roadway and still alive; however, it died before rangers could arrive. The young wolf was probably a member of the Buffalo Pack that frequents the eastern portion of Grand Teton; this pack has successfully denned in the park since 2008.

Park officials did not receive any reports of an accident and further details are not known. According to the Code of Federal Regulations, a motor vehicle operator is required to report an accident involving property damage, personal injury, or death—which includes the injury or death of wildlife.

This is the second gray wolf killed by a vehicle on park roads this year. On February 15, a sub-adult male wolf was hit and killed on Highway 26/89/191 in the vicinity of Elk Ranch Flats. Earlier this year, a 3 1/2-year-old male grizzly bear was hit and killed just south of the Spread Creek Bridge—not far from the current wolf mortality. This is a wildlife-rich area of the park, with brush and trees near to the roadbed; vegetation can reduce the visibility of animals that may be lingering near the road. Wildlife are also typically found near riparian areas, and motorists should slow down, use extra caution, and be more alert while driving through riparian areas or locations with limited roadside visibility .

Each year in Grand Teton, an average of one or more wolves and bears (grizzly and/or black) are involved in vehicle collisions that result in the injury or death of the animal. In the past five years, vehicle-related deaths of wolves and bears include: 2006, one black bear and one gray wolf; 2007, two black bears and one grizzly bear cub; 2008, two gray wolves; 2009, one black bear; and 2010, two wolves, one grizzly bear, and one bear (unverified species) that was injured, but left the scene.

These encounters between vehicles and bears or wolves—among other wildlife incidents—serve as a reminder that wildlife actively cross and use park roads. Motorists are reminded to drive the posted speed limit and be prepared to stop suddenly for wildlife along or on park roadways. Driving slower than indicated speed limits—especially at night—can increase the margin of safety for people and wildlife. Collisions between motor vehicles and wildlife may result in severe damage to a vehicle, serious or fatal injuries to the occupants of that vehicle, and/or death for the animal involved.

In addition to wolves and bears, other wildlife such as elk, moose, bison, deer, pronghorn antelope, as well as smaller creatures such as beavers, marmots, and porcupines, may also be encountered on or near park roads. Many of these animals have been killed in vehicle collisions. In fact, over the past five weeks, one large animal (coyote size or larger) has been hit and killed on park roads each day, accounting for the deaths of nearly 50 animals.

Vehicles take a significant toll on park wildlife, resulting in the deaths of well over 100 animals per year.

International Migratory Bird Day Recognized

Yellow-bellied sapsucker at cavity nest
chiseled into aspen trunk

April 30, 2010

10-23
Grand Teton National Park will celebrate International Migratory Bird Day (IMBD) with a bird-watching caravan on Saturday, May 8, 2010. Park ranger naturalist Andrew Langford will visit areas throughout the park that provide excellent opportunities to locate, identify, and count birds as part of the North American Migration Count. The free activity begins at 8 a.m. in the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center at Moose, Wyoming and finishes by 4 p.m. at Christian Pond near Jackson Lake Lodge. Reservations are not required.

Anyone interested in birds is welcome to participate in Grand Teton’s IMBD celebration and annual bird count. Throughout the day, participants will take short walks at various locations, so those attending should wear comfortable shoes and bring a lunch, drinking water, warm clothing and rain gear. Bird field guides, binoculars and spotting scopes are also recommended items.

According to the IMBD Web site, the theme for 2010 is the “Power of Partnerships” in bird conservation. This theme highlights the many partnership organizations and conservation programs initiated to protect vulnerable species of migratory birds. Several avian species that have benefited from conservation programs coordinated by partnership organizations are also seasonal visitors to Grand Teton National Park. These birds include peregrine falcons, Swainson’s hawks, long-billed curlews, rufous hummingbirds, burrowing owls, and yellow-bellied sapsuckers.

Observed each year in May to celebrate and support bird conservation, IMBD serves as the hallmark outreach event for Partners in Flight—an international conservation program whose goal is to reverse declining populations of migratory birds by bringing attention to factors that may contribute to worldwide declines. This year marks the 20th anniversary for Partners in Flight.

For more information about International Migratory Bird Day and the North American Migration Count, please call the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center at 307.739.3399. Participants of the Migratory Bird Day activity are reminded that park entrance stations are open; therefore, they will need to present a park pass to travel through these entrance gates.

Bears Active in Grand Teton & JDR Parkway

Bears out of hibernation and seeking food
throughout Grand Teton and the Rockefeller Parkway
(photo by Gary Pollock, NPS)

April 20, 2010
10-20
Bears have emerged from their winter dens and local residents and park visitors need to be alert for their presence throughout all areas of Grand Teton National Park and the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway. Several recent sightings have been reported, and bears are active at locations from the Oxbow Bend of the Snake River and the park’s east boundary with Bridger-Teton National Forest, to developed areas at Flagg Ranch, Colter Bay and Beaver Creek. At some of these sites, bears were observed feeding on winter-kill carcasses.

When bears leave their winter dens, they search for any food source that will help restore fat reserves lost during hibernation. Winter-killed animals provide immediate sources of protein, and hungry bears will strongly defend this and other food sources against perceived threats. Carcasses and freshly killed animals should serve as a point of caution—a red flag to detour away from the area. As snow banks recede, bears also dig up and eat spring wildflowers and burrowing rodents.

Adult male bears usually emerge from hibernation by mid to late March, followed by females without cubs. Female bears accompanied by cubs emerge later in the spring and are extremely protective of their young.

Park visitors are reminded to never approach a bear under any circumstances. This is particularly important for situations involving a bear near a carcass and other food sources, or a female bear with her cubs.

With the increased activity of bears, appropriate precautions must be taken. Visitors are advised to carry bear spray, keep it easily accessible and know how to properly handle it. Hikers enjoying the park’s backcountry should exercise good judgment, stay alert, and follow recommended safety precautions such as making noise and traveling in a group.

Visitors should report any bear sightings or signs to the nearest visitor center or ranger station as soon as possible. Timely reporting will help to keep bears away from unnatural food sources, and allow park rangers to provide important safety messages to visitors about bear activity.

Access to human food and garbage usually leads to food-conditioned bears. When bears lose their fear of humans, they often become a nuisance and a safety concern. Park visitors are reminded to keep food, garbage and other odorous items unavailable to bears at all times by storing attractants inside vehicles, by disposing of garbage in a bear-resistant trash can or dumpster, and by keeping personal items—such as backpacks or drink containers—with them at all times, especially when they contain food.

For further information on how to behave when hiking, camping or picnicking in bear country, read the park’s newspaper, Teewinot, online at www.nps.gov/grte .

Public Closure in Effect to Protect Sage Grouse

March 16, 2010

10-13
A temporary public closure is in effect to protect breeding sage grouse at the Moulton Ranch lek (a seasonal mating arena) off the Antelope Flats Road in Grand Teton National Park. A quarter-mile radius around the lek site will be posted as closed to all public entry from March 15 to May 15, to minimize human disturbance and reduce stress on grouse that traditionally use this site during their annual mating season. Violations of the wildlife protection closure may result in a citation.

Sage grouse are highly sensitive to human disturbance. Human activity near a lek can trigger birds to flush or leave the area, and continual disturbances can cause birds to permanently abandon or re-locate a lek site. To minimize disturbance to grouse, yet allow for bird watching, an adjacent viewing area has been established at the southwest side of the closure perimeter. Visitors may reach the viewing area by parking at a small pullout near one of the Moulton cabins and walking along a gated dirt road that heads north from the junction with Antelope Flats Road; the viewing spot is located just east of this dirt road. Visitors must observe the wildlife closure signs, stay within the viewing area, and not approach grouse at any time. Visitors should arrive well before sunrise and not leave until after the birds have completed their morning display, remain as quiet as possible, and refrain from talking loudly or making unnecessary noise while at the viewing area.

Grand Teton National Park rangers will be leading early-morning trips to observe the strutting sage grouse as they perform their springtime mating dance on this traditional lek. Strutting grouse tours are currently scheduled for Saturdays and Sundays during the weekends of April 10-11, April 17-18, and April 24-25. Trips begin at 5:30 a.m. from the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center, and reservations are required. Call the Discovery Center at 739.3399 to make reservations and obtain information about what to wear and bring along on these ranger-led excursions. The April ranger-led tours offer local residents and park visitors an excellent opportunity to see the unique antics of sage grouse as they perform their seasonal mating dance.

Sage grouse populations have been declining over several years throughout much of the West, in part due to habitat loss. Recently, Department of the Interior Secretary Ken Salazar announced that the population of sage grouse has declined by 90 percent and their habitat has been reduced by 50 percent across the western states. Consequently, the birds were named a “candidate species” by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) for protection under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The FWS has plans to annually review the status of sage grouse and work with western states, such as Wyoming, on conservation programs as part of the recent decision on listing sage grouse under the ESA.

Assessment of Wildlife-Vehicle Collisions

Caution sign for wildlife-vehicle collision awareness

Pronghorn antelope killed by vehicle on Grand Teton roadway

February 8, 2010
10-04
Each year, Grand Teton National Park collects comprehensive data on the number of wildlife-vehicle collisions occurring on park roads. This information is used to examine trends and patterns in an effort to make park roads safer for both humans and wildlife. Four years ago, Grand Teton initiated a proactive education/ prevention campaign to reduce the apparent growing number of collisions and associated animal mortalities. Despite a determined effort to educate and alert motorists about wildlife on roads, the number of these incidents appears to be fairly consistent from year to year. In fact, park officials believe that the tally is likely higher than the numbers indicate, because some collisions are not reported, particularly when smaller animals are involved.

Wildlife-vehicle collision statistics for the past five years reveal that an average of 33 deer, 38 elk, ten bison, seven moose, three pronghorn, two bears and one wolf are killed each year on park roads. In addition, a host of smaller animals such as foxes, porcupines, beavers, marmots, pine martens, sage grouse, and owls die each year as a result of collisions with automobiles. The data suggests that vehicle speed, time of day (e.g. dusk, dawn, and nighttime), and specific location (e.g. the Gros Ventre junction and adjacent area) may be factors in wildlife-vehicle incidents.

In 2006, Grand Teton National Park and the Jackson Hole Wildlife Foundation entered into a cooperative agreement to address wildlife-vehicle collisions, and implement a variety of educational outreach and mitigation measures. One of the steps taken was the placement of flashing message boards at strategic locations along Highway 26/89/191; these variable message signs caution motorists to be alert for wildlife and to slow down. In addition to the flashing message boards, other efforts include stationary signs placed at wildlife crossing hotspots, public service announcements broadcast on the radio, flyers provided at park entrance stations, and cautionary alerts placed in the Teewinot, the park’s newspaper. Grand Teton is also working with the Wyoming Department of Transportation on developing additional mitigation measures.

In an ongoing effort to reduce wildlife mortalities related to vehicle collisions, Grand Teton park managers once again urge motorists (local residents and out-of-state visitors alike) to stay alert, to slow down and to give wildlife a brake—especially during low-light conditions from dusk to dawn when animals may be difficult to see on roadways. Drivers should expect the unexpected with regard to wildlife that travel near and across park roads.

Pika Monitoring Initiated During Summer 2009

Pikas are called "haymakers of the mountains"
for their habit of storing plant materials as a winter food supply.

(photo by Becky Wiles, NPS)

December 16, 2009

09-109
In response to a growing body of evidence indicating that climate change is slowly and persistently affecting the ecology of plant and animal species on a global scale, Grand Teton National Park biologists—in collaboration with Yellowstone National Park and Teton Science Schools—initiated a survey this past summer to develop baseline data on the local population of American pika (Ochotona princeps). Pikas reside at high elevations (one of few mammal species to so) and although they are found throughout the Teton Range, little is known about their habitat requirements, distribution, and historic or current range.

Recent scientific studies suggest that the American pika, a small lagomorph found in subalpine and alpine talus slopes, can be used as an indicator species for evaluating the effects of climate change in western North America because of its sensitivity to temperature fluctuations. In a study conducted in Nevada’s Great Basin by Eric Beever, ecologist with the U.S. Geological Survey, 7 out of 25 pika populations were lost in the 55-86 years since their last recorded presence. Researchers also found that pika populations shifted upward an average elevation of 500 feet in Yosemite National Park; a fact that suggests pikas may eventually reach an elevation limit in their response to increasing temperatures. In addition, habitat models recently developed by April Craighead, with Craighead Environmental Research Institute, and Scott Loarie, with the Carnegie Institute, predict that pikas may disappear from over 80% of their current range by the turn of the century. The majority of this disappearance is expected to occur in the pikas’ lower elevation range where temperatures may exceed thresholds for their survival.

Evidence linking changes in pika numbers and their distribution to a warming climate prompted the Center for Biological Diversity to petition the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 2007 to list pikas under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). While a decision has not yet been issued on this petition, if listed, the American pika will become the first mammal species outside of Alaska to be protected under the ESA due to climate change threats.

Using geographic information system (GIS), Grand Teton biologists modeled suitable pika habitat located between Rendezvous Mountain and Paintbrush Canyon based on characteristics derived from published literature and related studies. Suitable habitat was defined as talus slopes less than 35 degrees in angle and no more than 400 meters from an established or “social” trail. Biologists selected 250 random locations to serve as established points for the survey. At each point, technicians assessed the area for habitat suitability and proceeded to locate physical evidence (scat, hay piles) as well as visual and/or vocal activity. Investigators then made population estimates in each plot and placed small sensors at ten survey sites that measure temperature several times a day. The sensors will be left in the field for one year, after which time they will be collected and the temperature data downloaded. Preliminary results from this year’s survey indicate that, within Grand Teton, observers found evidence of pika occupancy in or surrounding 47 of 49 plots, which ranged from 2000-3500 meters in elevation.

Grand Teton’s pika monitoring surveys were relatively simple and cost effective to implement. Based on this initial project, there is growing interest among Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem land management agencies in expanding surveys to include national forest areas, and other locations across the ecosystem.

This project serves as a critical first step in documenting where pika populations exist and ultimately will help biologists understand how those populations may change under different climate scenarios. Information from this project will be used to evaluate the health of Grand Teton’s pika population and comes at a time when pikas throughout the western United States are predicted to disappear in the near future due to climate change.

Motorcycle Collision with Pronghorn

June 21, 2009
09-44
A collision between a motorcycle, with two riders aboard, and a pronghorn on Saturday afternoon, June 20, resulted in serious injuries to the passenger and minor injuries to the driver. The single vehicle collision occurred at 1:25 p.m. on Highway 26/89/191, two miles south of the Snake River Overlook in Grand Teton National Park. Brady Burgess, a 38-year-old resident of Garland, Utah and his passenger and wife, 46-year-old Koreen Burgess, were traveling southbound when the collision occurred.

Burgess, driving his 2005 Polaris Victory motorcycle, was leading a string of about seven motorcycles, when he entered the northbound lane, attempting to pass a motor home. As he started to clear the front of the RV, a pronghorn, heading eastward, began to race across the highway. While traveling at approximately 65 miles per hour, Burgess attempted to swerve left to avoid the animal. In response to the approaching vehicle, the pronghorn leapt into the air and impacted the right side of the motorcycle. The force of the impact knocked both riders off the motorcycle, causing the bike to tip over. The motorcycle continued to slide for approximately 100 feet down the highway. Neither Burgess nor his wife was wearing a helmet at the time.

Teton Interagency Dispatch Center received reports of the accident from several passers-by shortly after it occurred. Eleven park rangers and emergency medical personnel responded immediately to the scene. Emergency medical personnel from Teton County and an off duty Minnesota highway patrolman, who was first on the scene, also assisted with the incident. Two ambulances—one from Grand Teton and the other from Teton County—responded to the scene to transport the two injured people to St. John’s Medical Center in Jackson.

Due to the serious nature of the incident, and the multiple ambulances and emergency medical personnel required to treat the injured people, Highway 26/89/191 was closed to traffic for one hour from 1:40 p.m. to 2:40 p.m. Park rangers assisted with traffic control at Moran and Moose junctions and diverted vehicles through a detour along the Teton Park Road.

Grand Teton National Park rangers have concluded their investigation of the collision; however, this incident serves as an important reminder that wildlife are often wandering across, or lingering near, park roadways. Therefore, all motorists must be extra alert while driving and slow down for their own safety, as well as the welfare of park animals.

Motorists are reminded to drive the posted speed limit and be prepared to stop suddenly for wildlife on park roads. Driving slower than indicated speed limits—especially at night—can increase the margin of safety for people and animals alike. Collisions between motor vehicles and wildlife may result in severe damage to a vehicle, serious or fatal injuries to the occupants of that vehicle, and/or death for the animal involved.

Bears Emerge From Hibernation in Grand Teton

Grizzly bears out of hibernation -- photo by Gary Pollock, NPS

April 14, 2009
09-17
Bears have emerged from their winter dens in the greater Jackson Hole area; consequently, local residents and park visitors need to be alert for their presence anywhere within Grand Teton National Park and the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway. Just this week, a grizzly bear was observed near the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center and the park’s headquarters building at Moose. Because this and other bears are again on the move and actively searching for springtime food sources, appropriate precautions for traveling in bear country must be taken.

Do not approach a bear under any circumstances. This is particularly important for situations involving bears near a carcass or other food source, and female bears with cubs.

When traveling in bear country, take precautionary measures such as carrying bear pepper spray and keeping it easily accessible for ready use. Please take the time to learn how to properly handle bear pepper spray and remember that having it with you is not a substitute for being alert. While enjoying recreational activities on the Teton Park Road, the Moose-Wilson Road, and in other backcountry areas within the park, visitors should always exercise good judgment by following recommended safety precautions: Be alert to surroundings, make noise, travel in a group, and keep food and garbage properly stored.

When bears leave their winter dens, they search for any food source that will help restore fat reserves lost during hibernation. Winter-weakened animals and winter-killed wildlife carcasses provide immediate sources of protein and are vigorously defended by hungry bears. As snow banks recede, bears also dig up and eat burrowing rodents and spring wildflowers. Historically, adult male bears emerge from hibernation by late March. Female bears, accompanied by their cubs, emerge later in the spring and are especially protective of their young. Any bear will defend a food source against perceived threats.

Visitors should report any bear sightings or signs of their activity to the nearest visitor center or ranger station as soon as possible. This timely information will assist park staff in keeping visitors informed about recent bear activity, and in keeping bears away from unnatural food sources. Access to human food habituates bears and habituated animals can lose their fear of humans, which threatens the safety of both visitors and the bears themselves. Park visitors are reminded to keep food, garbage and other odorous items unavailable to bears by either storing attractants inside vehicles or disposing of garbage in a bear-resistant trash can or dumpster.

For further information on how to behave when hiking, biking, picnicking or camping in bear country, read the park’s newspaper, Teewinot, online at www.nps.gov/grte .