YELLOWSTONE — Grizzly bear research is underway in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE).
The purpose of the research, which is being conducted by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team, or IGBST, is to monitor grizzlies and collect data on their lives and well-being in order to extend and preserve the species.
The reason this project is so important is because grizzly bears are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act.
“They’re an iconic and treasured species in the region by people from across the world,” says Matthew Gould, team leader for the IGBST and a biologist for the U.S. Geological Survey. “Having active data that helps provide information to management agencies so they can have the best available science to implement the actions for recovery is crucial.”
Matthew Gould is the team leader for the IGBST and a biologist for the U.S. Geological Survey, which is the independent research arm of the U.S. Department of the Interior.
Gould’s team focuses solely on grizzly bears in the GYE. They collect data on the bears by capturing them and attaching radio collars to them. These collars allow the team to collect data regarding a plethora of things, such as their survival and mortality rates, whether or not females have reproduced, how long their young live and how big litter sizes are, where the bears live, how long they hibernate and more.
Research efforts began more than 50 years ago—in 1973 to be exact. Since then, IGBST has gathered lots of data, which is sent to federal, state and tribal agencies to monitor the population trends in the GYE.
“This is an incredibly unique and special monitoring program that allows us to get a glimpse into the lives of grizzly bears over generations,” Gould said.
Although research is done year-round, Gould’s team conducts capturing and collaring only from May to October when the bears aren’t hibernating.
Gould says the public can help by sending pictures and videos of grizzlies they see to their state’s wildlife agency, such as the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, or to Yellowstone National Park itself.
For more information, go to IGBST’s website or search ‘IGBST’ online.