Watch a Wolf Pack Emerge From Nowhere To Fight a Huge Grizzly

Written by Kirstin Harrington
Updated: September 4, 2023
© Perpis/Shutterstock.com
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Key Points:

  • A bear can use its senses of smell, sight, and hearing more effectively while it is rising up on its hind legs.
  • Wolves hunt in packs, but don’t usually attack or try and fight grizzly bears.
  • Wolves are typically scared of bears because of their size.

Both the geysers and the rich and plentiful fauna of Yellowstone are well-known. There are 67 species of mammals, notably seven native ungulate species and two bear species, in addition to approximately 300 species of birds, 16 species of fish, five amphibian species, and six reptile species.

During a visit to the beloved park, a YouTube creator with a channel called “Tied to Nature,” had a wild experience. Thankfully, he was able to film an encounter for us to witness from the comfort, and safety, of our own homes. 

In the distance, a beautiful grizzly bear is seen minding his own business in a wide-open field. Quickly, a pair of wolves are heading towards the bear, in hopes of a tasty lunch. Bears are incredibly intelligent creatures. Without hesitation, the one in the video stands on its back legs. 

A bear can use its senses of smell, sight, and hearing more effectively while it is rising up on its hind legs. It is an indication of inquiry, not hostility. Surprising to those witnessing this in person, the bear starts running towards the wolves.

As the cameraman mentions to other visitors, this is likely to get a better look at the wolves. 

grey wolf
Gray wolves are social animals that hunt in packs

©nataliatamkovich/Shutterstock.com

In a matter of seconds, an entire pack of wolves surrounds the bear. A wolf pack divides into smaller groups and surrounds its victim when pursuing huge game. Usually, shoulders and flanks are where wolves bite on the initial attack. Other wolves grab the animal by the snout, although some pack members attack the prey from behind.

Several more wolves appear from the meadow and run toward the bear. They’re telling the apex predator that this is their land and he needs to leave. Bears and wolves do kill one another in the wild, but they’re known for being able to coexist the majority of the time. 

This grizzly attempts to stand its ground before the wolf pack grows in numbers even more. Eventually, the wolves chase the bear into the trees. We’re grateful that no blood was shed during this interaction. Things in the wild can escalate quickly, especially when it comes to territory. 

Mother grizzly bear ever vigilant monitoring the whereabouts of her cub.
Grizzly bears are sometimes afraid of wolves because they attack in packs.

©Kelp Grizzly Photography/Shutterstock.com

When unwelcome animals intrude on their territory, wolves will protect that area. Typically, all that is necessary for protection is to intimidate an outsider by growling and flashing teeth. There will occasionally be a pursuit, and in extreme cases, the chase may lead to a physical altercation. 

Bears are not territorial, however, they may protect a food supply or a partner while they are around. They don’t patrol or keep other bears out of a particular region. Bears appreciate a certain amount of personal space, yet frequently different species live in close proximity to one another at various periods.

Is it Normal Behavior for Wolves to Attack Grizzly Bears?

Yes and no, Grizzly bears are typically fearful of wolves because they are usually found in packs. Where there is one wolf, there are many behind it. On the other hand, wolves are typically scared of bears because of their size.

grey wolf
While wolves are much smaller than bears, bears are cautious of wolves due to being outnumbered by a pack.

©AB Photographie/Shutterstock.com

Normally, if there is one wolf, a grizzly bear may avoid it or continue with caution. Grizzly bears are generally more powerful than wolves, but wolves tend to be faster and outnumber bears.

The two species have been seen fighting each other, however, it doesn’t happen often.

Don’t Miss This Fascinating Confrontation in the Video Below!

Grizzly vs Gray Wolf

Bear staring into camera
A grizzly can weigh as much as 800 pounds making it a fearsome adversary for a wolf

©Lubos Chlubny/Shutterstock.com

Who is most likely to win in a battle between a brown bear and a wolf? Quite often, victory in the wild is often a question of size, might, and ferocity. 

Brown bears on average weigh between 400 – 800 lbs outdoing gray wolves which are only capable of tipping the scales at 140 lbs, at the most.

There is also their bite force with grizzlies’ being 1160 psi almost thrice that of gray wolves which is 400 psi.

Hence, it’s no surprise that gray wolves generally tend to give grizzlies a wide berth in the wild. That said, there is strength in numbers and occasionally, a pack might decide to take on these massive ursines.


The Featured Image

Grizzly bear
Can brown bears climb trees? Yes they can! Check out this article to discover more about these agile climbers.
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About the Author

When she's not busy playing with her several guinea pigs or her cat Finlay Kirstin is writing articles to help other pet owners. She's also a REALTOR® in the Twin Cities and is passionate about social justice. There's nothing that beats a rainy day with a warm cup of tea and Frank Sinatra on vinyl for this millennial.

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