Jackson, Wyoming – A somber pall has fallen over Grand Teton National Park and the wildlife community with the news of grizzly bear No. 399’s death. The beloved matriarch, known for her frequent roadside appearances and remarkable longevity, was fatally struck by a vehicle Tuesday night on Highway 26/89 south of Jackson.

Park officials confirmed the incident Wednesday, stating that the driver of the vehicle was unharmed. A yearling cub, one of 399’s offspring from her last litter, was with her at the time. While the cub is believed to be physically unscathed, its current whereabouts are unknown, raising concerns about its survival.

No. 399, easily identified by her distinctive ear tag, was a true icon of Grand Teton. At 28 years old, she was the oldest known reproducing female grizzly in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Her annual emergence from the den each spring, often with a new litter of cubs in tow, was a highly anticipated event for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers worldwide.

Unlike many of her reclusive counterparts, 399 exhibited a remarkable tolerance of humans, frequently venturing close to roadsides and captivating onlookers with her presence. This unusual behavior, biologists speculate, may have been a strategy to protect her cubs from male grizzlies known to sometimes kill offspring to bring females back into breeding condition.

“She was an ambassador for her species,” reflected a local wildlife guide, who has spent years observing and photographing 399. “She allowed people to connect with grizzlies in a way that was both intimate and awe-inspiring. Her loss leaves a void that will be deeply felt.”

The death of this celebrated bear has reignited debate surrounding grizzly conservation and management in the region. While the grizzly population in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem has rebounded significantly since their listing as a threatened species in 1975, conflicts with humans, including vehicle collisions, remain a persistent threat.

“This tragic incident underscores the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to ensure the safety of both grizzlies and humans in this shared landscape,” remarked a spokesperson for a local conservation organization. “We must work together to minimize risks and promote coexistence.”

As the sun sets on the life of this extraordinary grizzly, her legacy will undoubtedly endure. No. 399 will be remembered not only for her resilience and reproductive success but also for the profound impact she had on those fortunate enough to witness her grace and power.

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