First grizzly of the year spotted in Yellowstone National Park

JACKSON (WNE) — Yellowstone National Park biologists spotted the park's first grizzly bear of 2026 on Monday.

The scientists observed the bear in the northern part of the park. It was feeding on a bison carcass.

Bears emerging from hibernation often feed on elk and bison that died over the winter, according to the park's press release. They can be aggressive towards people when feeding on carcasses.

The first sighting of the year comes at a typical time. The first sighting last year was March 14. The first sighting of 2024 was on March 3. It was March 7 for both 2022 and 2023.

Last year, the first grizzly bear of the season in Grand Teton National Park was spotted on March 19 near Flagg Ranch.

Males typically come out of hibernation in early March. Females then emerge in April and early May.

This story was published on March 11, 2026.