Jackson, Wyoming – People familiar with a beloved grizzly bear known as Grizzly 399 are mourning the news of her death. The 28-year-old grizzly, fondly known as the Queen of the Tetons, died after being struck by a vehicle on Tuesday night.

In a news release, the Grand Teton National Park said:

On the evening of Tuesday, October 22, 2024, grizzly bear 399 was fatally struck by a vehicle on Highway 26/89 in Snake River Canyon, south of Jackson, WY and outside of Grand Teton National Park. The bear’s identity was confirmed through ear tags and a microchip.

A yearling cub was with Grizzly 399 when she was killed, but the cub has not been found. The park service said, “At this time, there is no evidence to suggest the yearling was also involved in the incident, but the Service is monitoring the area.”

Hilary Cooley, Grizzly Bear Recovery Coordinator for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said:

“People from around the world have followed grizzly bear 399 for several decades. At 28 years old, she was the oldest known reproducing female grizzly bear in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.”

Grand Teton National Park Superintendent Chip Jenkins added:

“The grizzly bear is an iconic species that helps make the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem so extraordinary. Grizzly bear 399 has been perhaps the most prominent ambassador for the species. She has inspired countless visitors into conservation stewardship around the world and will be missed.”

Rest easy.

View photos of the Queen of the Tetons at this link to the park service Flikr account.

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