Our Moose Mission: The Importance of Moose Day

Our Moose Mission: The Importance of Moose Day

by | Jan 20, 2025 | Blog

Moose Day: Contributing to Moose Science

Every winter, moose in Jackson Hole face extreme challenges. They rely on shrubs like willows and aspen for food, but deep snow and cold temperatures make survival tough. Unlike deer or elk, moose don’t migrate long distances to escape snowpack. Instead, they use their long legs and specialized hooves to navigate deep snow and access food. However, energy conservation is crucial—any unnecessary movement could cost them valuable resources they need to survive the winter.

To better understand how moose are faring during this critical time, the Jackson Hole Wildlife Foundation (JHWF) hosts its annual Moose Day. Volunteers from the community gather data to track moose locations, signs, and winter behavior. This data is part of Nature Mapping Jackson Hole, a program designed to give everyday people a role in local wildlife conservation.

Our Moose Mission: A Collaborative Effort

Moose Day is a collaborative effort between JHWF, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD), Grand Teton National Park, and the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Together, these organizations focus on collecting critical data about moose to monitor population trends and habitat use in Jackson Hole.

Certified citizen scientists and trained volunteers play a central role in Moose Day. Teams of two or three are assigned parcels to survey, often near private lands or developed areas where WGFD biologists face logistical challenges. Volunteers document moose sightings, tracks, scat, and browsing evidence. This collaborative approach allows for more comprehensive data collection, filling gaps that would be difficult for professional biologists to cover alone.

The data gathered during Moose Day is part of the Nature Mapping Jackson Hole program, which builds a long-term database of wildlife observations. By tracking moose and other species year-round, this community science initiative empowers local residents and visitors to contribute to conservation in a meaningful way. The data supports wildlife managers, researchers, and land-use planners in making informed decisions that protect wildlife and their habitats.

Moose Day is more than just data collection—it’s a rewarding experience that fosters a deeper connection to Jackson Hole’s wildlife and wild lands. It brings the community together for a shared purpose and highlights the importance of conserving the valley’s unique ecosystem.

Why Moose Day is Important

Moose populations in Jackson Hole have been declining due to habitat loss, warming winters, increased human activity, and disease. Winter is a particularly critical period to monitor because it’s when moose are most vulnerable. Deep snow can trap them in small areas, limiting their ability to find food and avoid predators. Meanwhile, access to key resources like willow flats or aspen groves becomes vital for survival.

The data collected during Moose Day helps:

  • Identify areas where moose are wintering successfully.
  • Track population trends over time.
  • Inform land management decisions to protect critical moose habitats.

By participating in Moose Day, volunteers play a direct role in wildlife conservation efforts, helping researchers and land managers better understand and address the challenges facing this iconic species.

Moose Day 2025:
Saturday February 22th

This year’s Moose Day is on Saturday, February 22nd, and the Jackson Hole Wildlife Foundation invites anyone with an interest in wildlife to participate. Volunteers will be assigned specific areas to document moose sightings, tracks, scat, and signs of browsing. These observations provide critical data about where moose are active during winter and how they’re using their habitat.

To participate, volunteers must register for both Moose Day and a required training session on Sunday, February 11th. The training is designed to prepare participants to accurately identify moose signs and report their findings using the Nature Mapping program. No prior experience is needed—just a willingness to contribute to wildlife conservation.

Join the Moose Day Effort

Moose Day is more than a volunteer opportunity—it’s a chance to contribute to meaningful wildlife science and connect with the natural world. By participating, you’ll help track the health and habits of one of Jackson Hole’s most iconic species while strengthening your connection to this special valley.

Sign Up for Moose Day 2025

JHWF’s Blogs

Wildlife on the Road – Springtime in Jackson

Wildlife on the Road – Springtime in Jackson

Mar 17, 2025 | ,

As spring arrives, wildlife activity increases, posing challenges for safe coexistence on roadways.With the onset of spring, Jackson Hole becomes a hub of wildlife activity. Animals such as elk, deer, and moose embark on their traditional migration journeys, often...

Our Moose Mission: The Importance of Moose Day

Our Moose Mission: The Importance of Moose Day

Jan 20, 2025 |

Moose Day: Contributing to Moose ScienceEvery winter, moose in Jackson Hole face extreme challenges. They rely on shrubs like willows and aspen for food, but deep snow and cold temperatures make survival tough. Unlike deer or elk, moose don’t migrate long distances to...

Read More

Elk Migration and Movement in Jackson Hole: Protecting Wildlife and Drivers

Elk Migration and Movement in Jackson Hole: Protecting Wildlife and Drivers

by | Dec 23, 2024 | Blog, Give Wildlife a Brake, Nature Mapping Jackson Hole

Migrating Wildlife

do not look both ways before crossing the road

Thousands of elk migrate from the higher elevations of Grand Teton National Park and surrounding areas to lower valleys, seeking food and shelter each winter. This seasonal journey is essential for the survival of the elk herd, but it also brings them into direct conflict with human infrastructure—most notably, busy roads like North Highway 89.

The National Elk Refuge, established in 1912, provides critical winter habitat for the Jackson Elk Herd, which can number as many as 11,000 animals. However, as elk move toward the refuge, they frequently cross North Highway 89, a major route connecting Jackson to the park.

These crossings often occur at dawn and dusk, when visibility is limited, increasing the risk of vehicle collisions. This time of year, elk are on the road in larger numbers, and Jackson Hole Wildlife Foundation, with partners Wyoming Game and Fish and Teton County, has reported a rise in roadkill incidents along this corridor.

The Challenge on North Highway 89

North Highway 89 sees heavy traffic year-round, and during elk migration, it becomes a hazardous bottleneck for wildlife. Data collected by JHWF, Wyoming Game and Fish Department, and Wyoming Department of Transportation shows that wildlife-vehicle collisions are a significant cause of mortality for elk, moose, and deer in the region. For drivers, an unexpected collision with a 600-pound elk can cause severe damage, injuries, or fatalities. Human safety and wildlife preservation are intertwined, making solutions to this challenge a community priority.

Proposed Wildlife Crossings

Teton County, WY

To address the growing problem, Teton County, Wyoming has proposed wildlife crossings and funnel fence at high-risk areas in Teton County, including:

North Highway 89: 3 Crossings (1 Overpass, 2 Underpasses)

  • Wildlife Overpass: This structure allows animals to cross above the road on a vegetated bridge, mimicking their natural habitat. Overpasses are particularly effective for larger mammals like elk and pronghorn that prefer open spaces.
  • Wildlife Underpasses (2): These tunnels provide safe passage beneath the road, offering an effective solution for animals that prefer cover.
  • Funnel Fence: (4 miles) Guided by funnel fencing, the underpasses and overpasses encourage wildlife to avoid the roadway entirely, reducing collision risks.

Teton Pass: 1 Overpass, 3 Underpasses, and a Fish Passage

  • Wildlife Overpass: Similar to the North Highway 89 overpass, this structure will reconnect migration routes over the highway, reducing risks for both wildlife and drivers.
  • Wildlife Underpasses (3): These underpasses will provide multiple safe routes beneath the Teton Pass Highway for animals such as deer, moose, and smaller mammals.
  • Fish Passage: A specialized structure allowing aquatic species to move freely along their natural waterways without obstruction from road infrastructure. This supports fish populations and improves the overall health of the ecosystem.
  • Funnel Fence: (4 miles)  Guided by funnel fencing, the underpasses and overpasses encourage wildlife to avoid the roadway entirely, reducing collision risks.

Camp Creek: 3 Underpasses and 1 Overpass

  • Wildlife Overpass: As with the other overpasses, this vegetated bridge provides a natural, open pathway for wildlife like elk, facilitating their migration while keeping them off the road.
  • Wildlife Underpasses (3): These crossings will guide animals safely below the road, preventing wildlife-vehicle collisions and maintaining connectivity across the landscape.
  • Funnel Fence: (5.5 miles)  Guided by funnel fencing, the underpasses and overpasses encourage wildlife to avoid the roadway entirely, reducing collision risks.

Wildlife crossings, including overpasses and underpasses with funnel fences, are proven to reduce collisions and support healthy migration. A study of similar projects on US Highway 191 near Pinedale, Wyoming, found a 90% reduction in wildlife-vehicle collisions after implementing overpasses and underpasses. This project, monitored by the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) and other agencies, highlights the effectiveness of combining crossings with fencing to guide wildlife safely above or below roadways. The Trappers Point crossing has become a national model for mitigating migration conflicts.

Scientists emphasize the importance of open migration corridors for ungulates. Fragmented or blocked movement routes can force wildlife into smaller, less suitable habitats, leading to stress, reduced herd sizes, malnutrition, and disrupted ecosystems. By building crossings, we reconnect critical wildlife movement routes and reduce risks for drivers.

A High-Profile Fatality

The recent wildlife-vehicle collision death of Grizzly Bear 399, one of the most well-known bears in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, highlights the devastating chain reaction caused by wildlife-vehicle collisions. Grizzly 399 and her cub were likely devouring an elk carcass in the Snake River Canyon that was very near to the section of the highway where she was killed. Roadkill draws predators like bears, wolves, and eagles to highways, dramatically increasing their risk of being struck by vehicles. Wildlife crossings can reduce these incidents by preventing collisions that leave carcasses on the roadside in the first place, breaking the cycle that endangers predators and scavengers.

While 399’s passing is a high-profile example of a wildlife-vehicle collision, the need for wildlife crossings extends far beyond any one species or one animal. Her death symbolizes the countless animals—ungulates, predators, birds, and smaller mammals—that lose their lives on roads each year.

Though 399 was internationally beloved and her story has drawn significant attention, she represents all wildlife navigating the dangers of high-traffic areas. We hope her legacy will inspire greater awareness and support for implementing wildlife-friendly crossing structures throughout Wyoming. These solutions have proven effective in reducing fatalities and reconnecting critical habitats, providing a safer future for all species that call this region home.

Give Wildlife a Brake and Nature Mapping: A Community Effort

The Give Wildlife a Brake program, led by JHWF, works to raise awareness and promote safer driving practices:

  • Drive mindfully and observe the speed limit in key wildlife zones like North Highway 89, Teton Pass, and Camp Creek.
  • Stay alert at dawn and dusk, when animals are most active.
  • Observe wildlife warning signs that identify known crossing areas.
  • Report collisions and roadkill to help scientists and officials prioritize safety improvements.

In addition, Nature Mapping Jackson Hole offers an easy way for community members to contribute to wildlife conservation. By becoming a certified Nature Mapper, participants can log wildlife and roadkill sightings using an app. The data collected is shared with Wyoming Game and Fish Department to better understand wildlife movements and identify problem areas. This citizen science initiative empowers residents to actively contribute to protecting the animals that define Jackson Hole.

Give Wildlife a Brake and Nature Mapping also work with local volunteers to monitor wildlife crossings, gather data, and educate residents and visitors about the importance of migration corridors.

Why It Matters

Elk are an iconic part of the Jackson Hole ecosystem. They support a balanced food chain and play a key role in the region’s cultural and ecological identity. Their winter migration has occurred for centuries, long before roads and cars appeared in the valley. Protecting this natural behavior while improving public safety requires collaboration, science, and community effort.

While this blog focuses on elk migration, the need for wildlife crossings applies to all species in the Jackson region, including mule deer. There is no doubt that wildlife-vehicle collisions pose a significant threat, ranking as the third leading cause of bird fatalities each year. Drivers should remain vigilant, as animals crossing the road are often accompanied by others, including offspring or members of a herd, making caution essential for reducing collisions.

Review the Wildlife Vehicle Collision Report to learn more about the scope of this issue and the need for wildlife crossings as a proven solution. Support efforts to fund and implement wildlife crossings and participate in programs like Give Wildlife a Brake and Nature Mapping Jackson Hole to make Jackson Hole safer for wildlife and people.

Give Wildlife a Brake
Nature Mapping
WVC Report

Grizzly 399’s Legacy: Protecting Wildlife on our Roads

Grizzly 399’s Legacy: Protecting Wildlife on our Roads

by | Nov 17, 2024 | Blog, Give Wildlife a Brake

Mourning a Legend

The Life and Legacy of Grizzly 399

On the evening of October 22, 2024, a routine commute through the Snake River Canyon turned tragic. Near milepost 126, a grizzly bear and her cub were feeding on an elk carcass when they attempted to cross the road. A commuter traveling at the legal speed limit of 55 mph swerved, narrowly missing the cub but tragically struck and killed the mother. This was no ordinary grizzly—it was 399, the most famous grizzly bear in the world.

The Road Ahead

A post-mortem analysis concluded that the collision was unavoidable. At highway speeds, drivers often have little chance of safely avoiding wildlife that appears suddenly. This heartbreaking incident underscores the critical importance of programs like Give Wildlife a Brake, which aims to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions through driver awareness and infrastructure improvements.

Give Wildlife a Brake

A Community Commitment to Wildlife Safety

The Give Wildlife a Brake program is a cornerstone initiative of the Jackson Hole Wildlife Foundation (JHWF). Its mission is to protect wildlife and motorists by identifying high-risk areas and implementing strategies to reduce collisions and increase access to critical habitats. Through public education, advocacy for reduced speed limits, and the installation of wildlife crossings, the program seeks to make our roads safer for all.
In the wake of 399’s death, the urgency of this mission has never been clearer. While some collisions may be unavoidable, many can be prevented with collective effort and informed action. By slowing down, staying alert, and supporting infrastructure projects, we can significantly reduce the risks to wildlife and ourselves.

Mitigating Wildlife Collisions

Progress and Hope

One of the program’s recent successes is the completion of wildlife underpasses at the intersection of Highway 22 and Highway 390. This busy junction, a key route to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, has historically been one of the nation’s most dangerous for moose. Thanks to the Give Wildlife a Brake program and our partners, this mitigation now provides a safe passage for animals beneath the road. Observers have already reported seeing moose, deer, and other animals using these crossings, offering hope that collisions will decrease over time.

These infrastructure improvements are direct results of community advocacy and the dedicated work of JHWF volunteers who “nature map” collision hotspots to guide where these structures are most needed.

Each year, Jackson Hole Wildlife Foundation’s Executive Director, Renee Seidler, collaborates with Alyson Courtemanch of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and Megan Smith of EcoConnect Consulting LLC to produce the Teton County, WY and Teton County, ID Wildlife-Vehicle Collision (WVC) Database Summary Report. This comprehensive report compiles crucial data on wildlife-vehicle collisions in the region, providing valuable insights that guide efforts to reduce these incidents and protect both wildlife and motorists. By analyzing trends and identifying high-risk areas, the report serves as a critical tool for conservation planning and community safety initiatives.

2023 Wildlife Vehicle Collision Report

WVC Hotspots – Moose

WVC Hotspots – Elk

WVC Hotspots –
Mule Deer

Learning from Loss

As we grapple with the loss of Grizzly 399, it’s important to celebrate her extraordinary life. First documented in 2003 when she ventured beyond Yellowstone National Park into the Tetons, she became a symbol of coexistence between humans and wildlife. Over her 28 years, she gave birth to 18 cubs, including the famed foursome of 2020.

Her survival and success were a testament to her intelligence and to the efforts of a community committed to protecting wildlife. Through programs like Give Wildlife a Brake, her life was extended, allowing countless people from around the world to experience the wonder of seeing a grizzly bear in the wild.

A Call to Action

The loss of Grizzly 399 is a profound reminder of the delicate balance between human activity and wildlife preservation. Through the Give Wildlife a Brake program, we have the tools and the opportunity to make meaningful changes that protect both animals and people.

Join us in creating a safer future for wildlife and our community. Discover how you can help reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions and make a lasting impact. Together, let’s give wildlife a brake and protect what matters most.

Learn more about Give Wildlife a Brake
Donate to support JHWF programming

Written in collaboration with Bruce Pasfield, Board Emeritus, JHWF

A SUMMER OF HABITAT IMPROVEMENT

A SUMMER OF HABITAT IMPROVEMENT

by | Nov 15, 2024 | Blog

Restoring Natural Landscapes and Preserving Wildlife

This summer, our team embarked on an ambitious journey to improve local wildlife habitats by tackling an incredible 12 fence modification projects and a major weed removal effort. With the invaluable support of 89 dedicated volunteers, we transformed 23.11 miles and acres of land, clocking over 679 hours of hard work and community spirit. Each project contributes to the larger goal of preserving ecosystems and creating safer spaces for local wildlife.

Getting into the Weeds

One of our proudest achievements was at Coburn Meadows, a site in Bridger-Teton National Forest that we’ve adopted for invasive weed removal. This year marked our second year of focusing on this area, where volunteers tackled some of Wyoming’s 372 invasive species. Removing weeds like houndstongue, bull thistle, and musk thistle is vital for restoring native plant life and supporting diverse habitats. We’re excited to expand this project next summer and raise awareness about the impact of invasive species on local ecosystems.

Happy Habitats

We also enjoyed a memorable visit from Ohio University’s honors program, where 15 students joined our efforts to clear 0.2 miles of barbed wire near Stinking Springs. This area, a critical habitat for bighorn sheep, elk, and pronghorn, is now safer for these majestic animals. Wyoming Game and Fish representative Ben Wise joined the team, providing students with a deeper understanding of the history of fencing in the West and its effects on wildlife.

On July 13, our conservation efforts took us to Sublette County, where three staff members and ten volunteers lowered 5.6 miles of fencing to protect the greater sage grouse. Lowering fences is essential to reducing mortality rates for these birds, especially as they gather in winter breeding grounds. These adjustments can make a life-saving difference, safeguarding sage grouse populations for future generations.

Small Actions = Profound Impact for Wildlife

Our habitat restoration work highlights the profound impact that seemingly small actions—such as lowering a fence or removing weeds—can have on the natural world. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or a newcomer, your support is crucial. If you have a fence that needs attention or want to join our incredible community, reach out to Kelsey at kelsey@jhwildlife.org. Together, let’s be the change we wish to see and create lasting habitats for wildlife.

JHWF’s Blogs

Wildlife on the Road – Springtime in Jackson

Wildlife on the Road – Springtime in Jackson

Mar 17, 2025 | ,

As spring arrives, wildlife activity increases, posing challenges for safe coexistence on roadways.With the onset of spring, Jackson Hole becomes a hub of wildlife activity. Animals such as elk, deer, and moose embark on their traditional migration journeys, often...

Our Moose Mission: The Importance of Moose Day

Our Moose Mission: The Importance of Moose Day

Jan 20, 2025 |

Moose Day: Contributing to Moose ScienceEvery winter, moose in Jackson Hole face extreme challenges. They rely on shrubs like willows and aspen for food, but deep snow and cold temperatures make survival tough. Unlike deer or elk, moose don’t migrate long distances to...

Read More

OCTOBER IN JACKSON HOLE MEANS BEARS PREPARING TO HIBERNATE

OCTOBER IN JACKSON HOLE MEANS BEARS PREPARING TO HIBERNATE

by | Oct 19, 2024 | Blog

What Pre-Hibernation Means to the Community

As October arrives in Wyoming, it marks a pivotal time for both black bears and grizzlies. The region’s bears are now entering the critical pre-hibernation phase, preparing to settle into their dens for the winter. This process, crucial for the survival of these animals, also brings increased risks of human-bear encounters in the Jackson Hole area. JHWF, through Bear Wise Jackson Hole partnership, is working to mitigate these risks with a focus on introducing bear-resistant grease traps to local businesses.

Understanding Bear Hibernation in Wyoming

Hibernation is an adaptive strategy that both black bears and grizzlies use to survive Wyoming’s harsh winters. As temperatures drop, food becomes scarce, prompting bears to conserve energy by slowing their metabolism and entering dens where they rest for several months.

Timing of Hibernation

  • Black Bears typically start denning around mid-October, with hibernation potentially lasting up to 7.5 months in colder climates.
  • Grizzly Bears usually begin hibernation later, generally hibernating for 5–7 months, depending on the severity of the winter and food availability.
  • Pregnant females of both species enter hibernation earlier to give birth, while males and non-pregnant females enter dens later and emerge earlier in spring.

Hyperphagia: The Intense Pre-Hibernation Feeding Phase

Before hibernation, bears enter a period called hyperphagia, marked by an urgent drive to consume as many calories as possible. During this phase, bears can consume up to 20,000 calories daily, often foraging for more than 20 hours a day.

During hyperphagia, bears:

Increase Activity

  • Bears are more visible during daylight as they roam widely to find food.

Become Less Cautious

  • Bears’ heightened focus on finding calories can lead to more encounters with humans.

Expand Mobility

  • Bears travel beyond their typical ranges, venturing into populated areas.

Bear Safety: Why Grease Traps Matter

As bears search for food in the fall, they are often drawn to human settlements, increasing the likelihood of conflicts. Through the Bear Wise Jackson Hole partnership, Jackson Hole Wildlife Foundation aims to reduce these encounters by helping local businesses and homeowners manage attractants effectively. This includes providing grease traps designed to prevent bears from accessing cooking oil and food waste, which are high-calorie attractants, particularly during hyperphagia.

Why Grease Traps Matter

  • High caloric density: Grease offers a tempting, high-energy food source that can attract bears to restaurants and homes.
  • Preventing conflicts: Just like bear-resistant trash cans, these traps prevent bears from accessing grease, reducing their chances of becoming conditioned to human food sources.

Protecting bears and people: Proper waste management minimizes the potential for bears to linger near human settlements, making it safer for both wildlife and residents.

What You Can Do to Help

Bear safety in Jackson Hole is a shared responsibility. Whether you’re a local resident, business owner, or visitor, you can play a role in fostering coexistence by adopting Bear Wise practices:

Secure Garbage

Use bear-resistant containers.

Store Food Safely Outdoors

Keep pet food, livestock feed, and birdseed out of reach.

Carry Bear Spray

Always have bear spray accessible when recreating outdoors.

Support Local Initiatives

Encourage and support the installation of bear-resistant grease traps and trash receptacles.

Working Toward Coexistence

As bears prepare for hibernation, keeping them safe from human conflicts is essential. Jackson Hole Wildlife Foundation takes a proactive approach to minimizing risks by addressing attractants and promoting education on bear behavior. Together, we can ensure a safer environment for both humans and bears, protecting Jackson Hole’s iconic wildlife.

JHWF’s Blogs

Wildlife on the Road – Springtime in Jackson

Wildlife on the Road – Springtime in Jackson

Mar 17, 2025 | ,

As spring arrives, wildlife activity increases, posing challenges for safe coexistence on roadways.With the onset of spring, Jackson Hole becomes a hub of wildlife activity. Animals such as elk, deer, and moose embark on their traditional migration journeys, often...

Our Moose Mission: The Importance of Moose Day

Our Moose Mission: The Importance of Moose Day

Jan 20, 2025 |

Moose Day: Contributing to Moose ScienceEvery winter, moose in Jackson Hole face extreme challenges. They rely on shrubs like willows and aspen for food, but deep snow and cold temperatures make survival tough. Unlike deer or elk, moose don’t migrate long distances to...

Read More