More Bear Sightings in Park Due to Weather

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By Nicole Grigg

Story Published: Jul 7, 2011 at 11:13 PM MDT

Story Updated: Jul 8, 2011 at 3:33 PM MDT

BILLINGS - The bear population in and around Yellowstone has grown in recent years to more than 600 and about 150 of those are Grizzlies.

In 2011, people are seeing them more than usual, and the weather is one reason so many people are seeing them.

"We spotted a grizzly bear. There were many cars along that region looking," said park visitor, Chien Zhou.

Yellowstone National Park Spokesman, Al Nash, said more bears are being seen because of the extended winter and delayed spring, "The bears didn't go up in elevation as quickly as they would during a more normal year."

The area of Wednesday's deadly attack has been placed off limits for now. U.S. Park Rangers told people trying to go up the trail that the investigation is still ongoing and suggested they head towards the North Rim of Yellowstone National Park.

Officials said they knew that a bear was in the area.

"It had not shown any aggressive behavior. So we had posted a sign saying there were bears frequenting this area," said Superintendent Dan Wenk of Yellowstone Park Operations.

The Canyon area of the park where the attack happened is the second most visited site.

"We just missed it by a day," said park visitor, Tim Heitzman.

Heitzman wasn't the only one shocked by the news.

"I don't think were going to be doing any big hikes for sure," said Kristen Jarvis.

Rangers are warning people that if they see a grizzly, to keep their distance, to travel in groups, and, along backcountry trails, to carry pepper spray to ward off the animals.

Paul Wyant was visiting the park as well and said he had his five-year-old son with, "its kind of scary having a child out there and putting him in harms way. If were going to do any hiking without bear spray, it is out of the question."

Park Rangers reminded visitors that, "grizzlies are defensive animals especially when around a carcass or if they have their young around them."

As of now, rangers don't know when the site will be reopened.

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real ! said on Friday, Jul 8 at 11:37 PM

U guys! Pull ur head out! Grizzlies r man hunters n eaters! All u granolas better wise up! Cus u guys r perfect meals!

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