15 Interesting Facts About Grizzly Bears

Here are 15 interesting facts about grizzly bears you might not have known. Plus, it’s stuff you should know about these giants.

They’re apex predators

In other words, nothing hunts them, apart from humans. Being at the top of the food chain also means they’re one of the most dangerous creatures out there.

There’s a reason they’re called ‘grizzly’

From their silver-tipped fur to the fact that they are kind of gnarly when they’re angry, they’ve earned their name. Plus, they do look a little mangy at times after rolling around in the grass.

They’re a subspecies

Grizzly bears are often called brown bears as well, for obvious reasons. The biggest difference between a grizzly and a brown bear is their diet and where they’re typically found.

Their size is a big reason to stay away from them

One thing you don’t want to do is upset a grizzly bear. These huge specimens aren’t just fast, they’re big enough to squash a person while clawing at them.

They’re opportunists

They’ll hunt without a doubt, but as an omnivore, they won’t turn down a good piece of carrion. Just don’t get in their way.

You can usually see a few of them hunting salmon

While they don’t travel in packs, grizzlies will share the river when the salmon are running. At that point, it feels as though their hunger overrides their need to defend their territory.

They aren’t slow

An adult grizzly can run up to 30 mph. So if you’re thinking of trying to outrun a grizzly, don’t.

Grizzly bears do have a distinctive hump on their back

From a distance, this is easy enough to look for. If you’re on the run it’s not quite as easy.

Their claws are as long as a human finger

Yes, those claws are long and sharp. Keep that in mind when you want to get any closer to one of them.

Oddly enough, female grizzlies don’t become pregnant right away after mating

They experience what is called delayed implantation. After the female gains enough weight for hibernation, the process begins.

Grizzlies hibernate for a good chunk of the year

Grizzly bears can hibernate for anywhere from five to seven months. This is often done when the weather turns and food sources are scarce.

They do give birth while in hibernation

One might think this would be a problem, but the bears have it figured out. The cubs stay with the mother and survive on their milk until the winter is over.

Do not come between a mother and her cubs

This is a rule of nature that has been passed down throughout the years. If you see a cub, just assume the mother is near and either get out of there or pray.