How to Identify the Grizzly Bear

Most people think of the term, "grizzly bear" and imagine any old bear. The grizzly bear is far from the average bear. Knowing how to identify this massive mammal is an absolute must if you live in bear country. Often confused with the black bear of North America, the grizzly bear is a whole different breed. Here is what you need to know to identify the grizzly bear should you have the misfortune of stumbling upon one in the wild.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Know the grizzly bears' range. The grizzly bear can be found throughout most of the extreme Northwestern States, Alaska and in particular the Rockies. This area is large and expansive and the grizzly bear is the dominant animal over the entire range.

2. View the grizzly bear only at an extreme distance with binoculars. Even then, you are within the smelling range of a grizzly. It is best to view this incredible omnivore from the safety of a zoo or with an experienced guide.

3. Observe that the grizzly bear has a very flat face with a snout that protrudes. This is in contrast to the black bear that has a more rounded face. Within the mouth of this awesome predator are a set of very large teeth.

4. Notice the incredible size of the grizzly bear. A full grown grizzly grows to around 8 feet, and can weigh in excess of 1,000 lbs. Even the smaller grizzlies are incredibly large and dangerous if provoked or surprised.

5. Remember that a grizzly bear can be a number of different colors. The most common color for the grizzly is blond, or tan. Sometimes, however, the color can range from reddish to even black. A grizzly bear can appear in many different colors, so this is not a good indication of species.

6. Observe the grizzly bear's small, round ears. This attribute is common to every grizzly that has not been wounded or had their ears altered in a fight.

7. Observe the "grizzled" tuft of fur under the grizzly bear's neck. This area of the grizzly is why it was so named. The fur looks mangy or scruffy and gives the grizzly bear a distinct feature. This is not always present with every grizzly bear, however.

8. See the large hump between the grizzly bear's shoulders. This hump gives the grizzly an appearance of having a higher shoulder line than rump line. It also allows the grizzly to appear even more intimidating than the black bear.

9. Observe that the grizzly bear has pale-colored long sharp claws. These claws have been known to decapitate a moose. This is one of the many reasons that you should never get near a grizzly bear.

Tips & Warnings

• Always observe wild animals from a distance with binoculars.
• Utilize a local park ranger to learn more about surrounding bear populations.
• Never approach a grizzly bear under any circumstances.