Wyoming Grizzly Bear Research Update

Authors(s): F. Hammond

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Publication Date: 0000-00-00

Type: mimeo

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Abstract: Aversive Conditioning Study We are currently winding down the third field season of an experiment designed to test a method of non-lethal control of problem grizzly bears. This year we have captured and radio-collared fourteen grizzly bears that appeared habituated to humans to an extent that they might be considered candidates for aversive conditioning. Seven of these bears continued to cause problems after being captured, allowing us to initiate conditioning trials. One additional nuisance bear was captured within Yellowstone National Park by Park Service personnel and experimentally conditioned by a team of researchers made up of both Park and Wyoming Game & Fish Department personnel. Data generated from this season's research wil be analyzed in the next few months and a report produced next spring. To date, all grizzly bears worked as part of the study have been females causing probems to front-country camps, lodges, ranches, and resort areas. An extension of the study has been requested for next year to attemtp testing aversive conditioning on 1) males, and 2) nuisance bears in remote areas, particularly in outfitter camps where most of the illegal mortality on grizzly bears occurs. Bear/Human Conflicts Project WGFD research personnel are continuing to gather historical and current reports of incidents involving grizzly bears and people in areas of Wyoming outside YNP. Documented reports are being entered into a computer in a standardized format and an analysis of current conflict management will be produced before spring. Grizzly Bear Habitat Project An evaluation of current grizzly bear habitat management has been initiated on the Shoshone and Bridger-Teton National Forests as part of a cooperative project looking at how historical habitat manipulations have affected grizzly bear food availability. Both the WGFD and the Bridger-Teton NF have contributed funding towards the study and the Shoshone NF indicates additional funding is forthcoming. Existing data on known age timber harvests and forest burns are being collated and mapped at the WGFD Cody office. A sampling design will be generated from these data and sent out for review before the 1989 field season. List of Grizzly Bears Captured for Aversive Conditoning Study Field Season, 1988 -- description of each

Keywords: animal, mammal, bear, Ursidae, grizzly bear, Ursus arctos horribilis, management, Yellowstone National Park, radio collar, human contact, food, forage, Shoshone National Forest, Bridger-Teton National Forest