The Grizzlies of Mount McKinley
Murie A. 1981. The Grizzlies of Mount McKinley. National Park Service Scientific Monograph Series. No. 14. National Park Service. Washington, DC
This scientific monograph details observations by the author on grizzly bear behavior and ecology in Mount McKinley National Park from 1922 to 1970, with the most intensive studies occurring from 1959 to 1970. It covers many aspects of brown bear behavior and ecology with commentary on habitats, population density, age determination techniques for cubs, range sizes and uses, reproductive behaviors, food habits, and interactions with other vertebrates including human beings. Study area bears were found to occupy predictable ranges each year and to occupy different portions of range seasonally. Home ranges are shown to overlap and disputes between bears appeared to be settled primarily on the basis of size. The breeding season extends from mid-May through mid-July with a peak in June. The minimum breeding interval for females is three years but is usually at least 4 years. Cubs remain with their mother until at least 2 1/2 years of age and some stay until age 3 1/2. Twins and triplets often stay together for up to three summers after leaving their mothers. Study area bears are omnivorous with vegetation providing the bulk of food items. The author includes commentary on park management that stresses a systems approach.
- Type
- Published Report
- Authors
- Murie, Adolph
- Date of Issue
- 1981
- Publisher
- National Park Service
- Units
- DENA , HIST
- Keywords
- Baseline Inventory, Behavior, Breeding, Cultural Resources, Denali National Park And Preserve, ehistory, Grizzly Bears, Mount Mckinley National Park, Mt. McKinley National Park, Natural History, Predation, Range, Terrestrial Mammals, Ursus arctos