Grizzly Bears

(Ursus arctos)

They are yellowish-brown to black and some have white-tipped hairs, giving it a grizzled appearance. Height at the shoulders about 4 ½ feet (1.3 m), 6-7 feet (1.8-2.13 m), weigh between 323-1,496 pounds (147-680 kg) and when standing measure up to 9 feet (2.7 m). They have a characteristically large hump (created by muscle mass) over the bear's shoulders.

Grizzlies are omnivorous. Their diet varies by the season and includes grasses, roots, berries, nuts, insects, fish, rodents, and sometimes small and large mammals. Brown bears on the Seward Peninsula don't depend a lot on salmon like they do in other areas of the state because salmon runs here are often small and salmon streams are few.

Brown bears can conceal themselves remarkably well in the low brush along hill sides. Although they will normally not attack a human, they will defend their young or their food if approached too closely. They have an excellent sense of smell, good hearing, and are extremely powerful. They are naturally curious, and caution should be taken when in their presence. Visitors planning to hike, birdwatch, or travel across country should get information on traveling though bear country before starting.

Try not to surprise bears. Make noise - talk loud, use bells, or shake stones in a can to announce your presence. If you meet a bear, yield the right-of-way by moving slowly away. Do not run. Clean camps are essential to reduce bear problems. Food and its odors attract bears. Keep cooking and sleeping areas of your camp separate. Store food in airtight containers

For information when traveling in bear country.