National Park Service Yellowstone National Park West Yellowstone, Montana
Notice to all Rangers and Enforcement Officers RE: Grizzly Bear Population
Be aware that Grizzly (Brown) Bear populations in the park are up significantly this year. It is important to inform all visitors to take bear precautions.
It is recommended that all hikers and back-packers going into the back-country carry small bells on their clothing or packs. Carrying a can of pepper spray is also recommended.
Hikers and back-packers should also be informed about the differences between black bear droppings (skat) and grizzly bear droppings.
Black bear droppings will contain berries, and sometimes squirrel fur.
Grizzly bear droppings will contain small bells and smell like pepper spray.