Bear Ambassadors
All bears are special. And, there are special bears.
Bear 399
Grizzly 399 was more of an advocate for bears than any person could be. She lived for 28 years and had 18 cubs in the Tetons of Wyoming. In 2020, 399 came out with her famous quads—four little cubs. Her mothering was decisive yet poignant. She was often very visible and incredibly tolerant with people, as 399 was known to graze and keep her cubs near roads lined with viewers. People of all kinds came from around the world to see 399 and she never disappointed.
Watching people’s faces light up when 399 and her cubs appeared made for hope that people and bears can peacefully coexist.
On this page, we aim to feature bears like 399 that have been admired by many, and who have helped people to respect and live alongside bears and other wildlife.
Grizzly bear 399, who lived in the Tetons of Wyoming (Thank you Joe Menius)
399 and her famous foursome in 2020 (Thank you vangophotos.com)
One of the first Pilgrim Creek crossings for the quads
399 and one of her rare solo cubs
399 heading up to the den with the quads at the end of 2021
The great guardian, 399
399 and her last cub, Spirit, in 2023
Where to next?
One of many road crossings in Teton National Park
Trying to keep up with Mom
"The most famous bear in the world"
Cub Spirit playful with mom 399, not always reciprocated
399 and cub Spirit (Thank you, Joe Menius)
399 had three sets of triplets between 2006-2013
Are we drinking?
Oh! ... We're swimming...
Always on the move with Mom in the lead (Thank you vangophotos.com)
399 was an attentive mother of 18 cubs over the span of her incredible 28-year life
Grizzly Bear 399, Queen of the Teton
Farewell, 399 (1996-2024): Thank you for all you've done for bears
Jeanie
This black bear lived in Whistler for 20 years. Her story inspired people to clean up bear attractants in the mountain town.
The Boss
This massive grizzly bear has earned a reputation around Banff National Park as the most dominant bear in the area. In doing so, he’s left a mark on the people who have observed him.
Photo by Jason Leo Bantle, allinthewild.com
Share About a Bear Ambassador
Know of a bear that has helped people to respect and live alongside bears and other wildlife? Contact us with your story.