Grizzly bears

California was once home to about 10,000 grizzly bears. The article states that these animals were exterminated over a century ago, despite the bear remaining a symbol of the Golden State, and raises the question of whether they can be brought back.

California was historically home to approximately 10,000 grizzly bears. These animals were subsequently exterminated, even though the bear remains a symbol of the Golden State. The article questions whether it is possible to bring these extinct bears back.

Democratic lawmakers in California propose a bill to study reintroducing grizzly bears, supported by tribes and environmentalists as an ecological restoration effort. Rural communities, ranchers, hunting groups, and Republican senators oppose the plan, citing safety concerns and ecosystem changes. The last California grizzly bear died over a century ago.

Trump's proposal to transfer grizzly bear management to states under a new rule, allowing states 'management flexibility' which environmental activists fear could hinder the species' recovery. U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum proposed this in Montana near Yellowstone National Park.

Environmental organizations sued the Trump administration over the removal of the word 'harm' from Endangered Species Act regulations, arguing it undermines protections for imperiled wildlife. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service will eliminate a 50-year-old definition of 'harm' effective September 14, citing conflicts with personal property rights and federal authority. The lawsuit claims the change could threaten species like Florida manatees, grizzly bears, and salmon.

The Trump administration is implementing a plan to allow off-road vehicles on public lands and national parks, which environmental groups argue will harm wildlife, ecosystems, and waterways. Critics describe the move as reckless and nonsensical, warning of habitat destruction and increased human-wildlife conflict.

Western conservation groups partially won their case against the U.S. Forest Service over the impact of road and vehicle access on grizzly bears and bull trout in the Bitterroot National Forest. A Montana federal judge ruled that the agencies failed to adequately assess the environmental effects of Amendment 40, which removed road-density restrictions, and did not properly consult on bull trout habitat.

Grizzly bears have taken a step closer to being reintroduced to California. The article notes progress toward their return but provides no further details.

Two hikers in Glacier National Park encountered two charging grizzly bears, which were captured on video. They used bear spray to deter the bears, resulting in no injuries to either humans or bears. The incident highlights the importance of carrying bear spray in grizzly country.

Two hikers were seriously injured in a bear attack on the Mystic Falls trail near Old Faithful in Yellowstone. The trail had been closed until 2024 to reduce conflicts with grizzly bears. The attack highlights the ongoing risk of encounters with wildlife in the area.