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2026 Harlow Summer Seminar Series: July 23, 2026

Talk Title: Bears of the Tetons: Roaming a Landscape of Complexity
Speaker: Justin Schwabedissen, Bear Biologist for Grand Teton National Park
Time: BBQ at 5:30pm followed by the seminar at 6:30pm (Mountain time)
Location: 

$10.00 suggested donation for attending the event. The event is open to the public and reservations are not required.

Attend Virtually: The talk will also be live on Zoom. The zoom link will be made available through our email list. If you haven’t already, !

Abstract

Roaming the wilds of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, bears have long captivated and inspired those who visit this remarkable landscape. Understanding how bears live, move, and adapt not only deepens our appreciation but also supports species conservation and efforts to reduce human-bear conflict. This presentation examines the seasonal behaviors, movements, and patterns of the black and grizzly bears that inhabit the region. Drawing on examples from field research, this talk also highlights how scientists use tools such as remote cameras, aerial surveys, DNA sampling, and GPS collars to study bear ecology. Decades of monitoring reveal how bears navigate a landscape of complexity in search of food, space, and mates—and emphasizes the challenges of managing a transboundary species in an ecosystem rich with human activity. By weaving science and stewardship, we can keep bears wild and people safe for generations to come.

Bio

Justin Schwabedissen is the Bear Biologist for Grand Teton National Park. Prior to leading the park's bear program, he worked on a diversity of wildlife projects across the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, including mule deer migration, wolf prey selection, avian monitoring, native fish surveys, and human-wildlife interactions. Justin holds a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Resources from the University of Idaho and a Master of Science in Wildlife Biology from Utah State University.

 

Photo credits

Featured Image: NPS/Adams
Headshot: Bradly J. Boner, JHNG