Feeding Frenzy and Food Sources

Not all seasons are created equal

I learned some interesting information about the food sources for bears this season from Kerry Gunther.  He is the bear management biologist in Yellowstone. 

Grizzlies and Black Bears typically feed on White Bark pinecones this time of year.  They are rich in nutrients and are a prime food source. However, they have been in decline in abundance over the past several years.  There are several reasons for this decline including a fungal disease called white pine blister rust, an increase in the prevalence of mountain pine beetles, and alterations to natural fire regimes. All of these are exacerbated by climate change and global warming.  (Yes, it is a real thing!)  There is a proposal to have the white bark pine listed for protection under the US Endangered Species Act.

 The white bark pine trees did not produce a lot of cones this year.  The bears should be up high on the slopes feasting on the cones.  However, they are down lower looking for other food sources.  They are feeding on chokecherries and Limber Pine pinecones, both of which are having bumper crops.  It is reported that rosehips will also have a bumper crop this year.  Mammoth Hot Springs (where I work) currently has about a dozen bears in the area and some have cubs.  Thus far, they are focused on feeding and are in hyperphagia.  Hyperphagia occurs in the fall and is an intense, constant feeding phrenzy that helps the bears gain a fat reserve to sustain them through hibernation in winter.  Luckily, they have not been getting into anything they shouldn’t.  They have figured out there are chokecherries on top of some of the cabins and have been climbing up there to feed.

Years ago, chokecherries and Limber Pine were planted in the Mammoth area for ornamental purposes.  They were cut down about 30 years ago when 3 kids and 2 bears were found in the same tree!!!!  They have since grown back, and the park service is coming up with a plan to eliminate them again. 

Here’s hoping the bears and humans can stay in their respective lanes over the next couple of months.