Spring is in the air as Grouse Mountain resident grizzly bears Grinder and Coola have woken up after 144 days of hibernation.
This marks the 25th winter of dormancy at Grouse Mountain’s Refuge for Endangered Wildlife.
The pair entered the den on Nov. 24, 2025 and their reappearance is a much-anticipated event.
When the two entered the den, Grinder weighed 970lbs and Coola weighed 1,025lbs after a preparation period of increased eating.
Throughout the winter, the pair were monitored in their den by a wildlife team and an infrared camera.
As Grinder and Coola begin to become active again, their diets will start with romaine lettuce to help restart their digestive systems before moving on to more fruits, vegetables, and proteins.
“Grinder and Coola’s fans around the world and our team at Grouse Mountain look forward to this moment every year,” said Dr. Ken Macquisten, Wildlife Refuge Director and Veterinarian. “The Grizzlies have once again demonstrated the remarkable adaptation of bears during winter dormancy, and seeing them emerge healthy and happy is a testament to both their natural instincts and the dedicated care they receive year-round.”
The public is welcome to visit the bears and learn more about the pair with daily Ranger Talks, starting April 17.
Grinder and Coola have lived at Grouse Mountain’s Refuge for Endangered Wildlife since 2001, after being rescued as orphaned cubs resulting from separate incidents in Bella Coola and Invermere.