Brown Bears Vs. Grizzly Bears

As you flip through your Yellowstone National Park photo album, the question arises: Are the bears in your pictures brown bears or grizzlies? In this post, we delve into the intriguing debate surrounding brown bears vs. grizzly bears, shedding light on their distinct characteristics and habitats.

The Umbrella Species: Brown Bears

The term “brown bear” is a global reference to Ursus arctos, one of the eight bear species inhabiting our planet. This species, found in North America and parts of Northern Eurasia, boasts iconic features such as long claws, humped shoulders, and a dish-shaped face. The fur of the brown bear varies from blond to dark brown or black, showcasing its remarkable adaptability. From coastal regions to mountainous landscapes, brown bears thrive in diverse environments, embodying the essence of an opportunistic scavenger and omnivore.

The Subspecies: Grizzly Bears

Grizzly bears are a subspecies of the brown bear. They are inland bears that once dwelled in the wide western North American prairies and mountains. Currently, they live only in Alaska, isolated parts of the northwestern United States, and some areas in western Canada. This shift in habitat can be blamed on a century’s worth of habitat loss and human interference.

Grizzlies are scavengers, but unlike their coastal brother, their diet consists of roots, berries, moths, and grubs. As omnivores, they also occasionally supplement their diet with animals or animal remains. Inland grizzly bears tend to be smaller than coastal brown bears, which feed on fish. That said, the size of a grizzly will still depend on its diet.

Distinguishing Traits

While grizzly bears are indeed a subset of brown bears, several key differences set them apart:

1. Habitat and Diet: Grizzlies thrive inland and lack access to marine-based food sources like fish and salmon, distinguishing them from coastal brown bears.
2. Physical Characteristics: Coastal brown bears, benefiting from a diet rich in fish, can reach weights of up to 1000 pounds in the fall. In contrast, grizzlies in Yellowstone National Park typically weigh less, with no recorded instances exceeding 900 pounds.
3. Appearance: Grizzlies often exhibit a distinctive silver-tipped or grizzled appearance, while coastal brown bears tend to have darker hues.

Embark on a Wildlife Adventure at Yellowstone Bear World

The distinction between brown bears and grizzlies fuels curiosity among wildlife enthusiasts. At Yellowstone Bear World, we offer a unique opportunity to witness grizzly bears in their natural North American habitat. Immerse yourself in the wonders of the wild and experience the majesty of these magnificent creatures.

No visit to Yellowstone National Park is complete without exploring Yellowstone Bear World. Contact us today at 208-359-9688 to schedule your encounter with grizzly bears and other captivating wildlife species. Experience the thrill of the wild at Yellowstone Bear World.