Just about every year in March, there’s a grizzly or two that comes out of hibernation and heads to the Blacktail Ponds in search of winter-killed bison.
Some years the snow is mostly melted by the time of the first bear sightings at Blacktail Ponds, other years there is still plenty. Fortunately this year brought the latter because grizzly bears against the white snow make for great photography opportunities!
While we were there, the bear was coming down from a nearby mountain day bed twice a day. Once in the morning before sunrise, and again after 5PM. I think he would just eat until he got his fill and then leave. Some days he left while we watched, others we left him there as it got too dark to photograph anymore.
I believe this is one of two bears that have come to the ponds regularly for the past few years to feed on bison carcasses after they’ve fallen through the ice. We saw the same bear for three days in a row, but no sign of the other bear. I wouldn’t be surprised if some other visitors came throughout the night though…
This big bear was certainly aware of the presence of people but it didn’t slow him down much. At one point he did try coming to a closer pond to find a new carcass in the water, but got spooked away by some noise at the road.
After feeding one night, the bear walked back up towards his mountain resting area but stopped for a while for a roll around in the snow.
The video below is a compilation of various clips captured of this bear over a three day period.
Unfortunately Yellowstone is closed now, so even if the bears were doing backflips in the snow, only the park rangers are there to see it!
The ravens reaction is classic!! .ost like, is this bear ok? It’s winter what are you doing rolling in the snow?
Thanks for sharing your great photography,
Awesome. Beautifully done. Please tell me the name of the background music. It is a powerful piece of music and matches the power of the bear. Superbly done.
Practicing his sexy moves on the ravens for when the females arrive. Love the music, which makes it even cuter. Thanks for bringing Yellowstone grizzlies to us.
Beautiful bear!
I enjoyed the videos and music, It was amazing to watch.
Thank you for Sharing.. that was fantastic!
Very cool images Trent. The videos are great. Just watching the bear brings back a normal feeling. I wish I could be there…
Love the videos and the music that goes with them. Thanks for bringing these animals to me