Effects of Climate, Dump Closure, and Other Factors on Yellowstone Grizzly Bear Litter Size

January 1, 1986

Effects of Climate, Dump Closure, and Other Factors on Yellowstone Grizzly Bear Litter Size

Grizzly bears (Ursus arctos) in Yellowstone National Park fed heavily on garbage at open-pit dumps from about 1895 until the dumps were closed in 1968-71. Concurrent with dump closure, mean cub litter size declined 17%. Almost 20% of the decline was associated with coincidental worsening of the climate and nearly 80% with closure. Impacts of closure may have been compounded by the simultaneous increase in adult male abundance, to which litter size was negatively correlated.

Author(s) Stephen F. Stringham
Volume 6
Issue
Pages 33-39
Publication Date 1 January 1986
DOI 10.2307/3872803
File Size 239.25 KB
Download

We are a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land, sea and waters, of the area that we live, work and research across the earth. We recognise their continued custodianship and connection to the land, waters and community. We respect and honor Elders past, present and emerging. Our hope is that we move forward with open minds listening and learning from their wisdom and knowledge.