Wyoming Bear Jams: Understanding The Risks And Responsibilities

It's the time of year when large carnivore sightings and poor human judgment incidents are heating up.

The U.S. Forest Service - Bridger-Teton National Forest has issued a release stating that bears are out and there has been an increase in bear jams. For those who are unfamiliar, a bear jam occurs when traffic is stopped due to the sighting of a bear.

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In the release, USFS reminds drivers:

Stopping, parking, or standing on or along the road is illegal and poses significant risks to other motorists and grizzly bears, whose behavior can be unpredictable, particularly with offspring.

It's an exciting time when you're able to capture a glimpse of a bear, wolf, bison, elk, deer, moose, antelope, or other wildlife you usually aren't able to see. Blackrock District Ranger Jason Wilmont says:

Bear Wise Jackson Hole and our interagency partners are calling upon the public, photographers, and wildlife tour groups to lead by example. Please follow direction of staff in the area; never stop your vehicle in or along the road, except in designated, paved areas; and observe all ethical wildlife viewing and photography practices to help us keep bears wild and people safe

As a reminder, always stay at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves and 25 yards from all other wildlife.

READ MORE: Tips For Wildlife Viewing In Wyoming

Carry bear protection, like bear spray, anytime you're in bear country. It's better to have it and not need to use it than to need it and not have it. Knowing how to use it properly is also extremely important.