The Boss (bear)
| Species | Ursus arctos horribilis |
|---|---|
| Sex | Male |
| Born | ca. 1997 (age 28–29) |
The Boss, known as Bear 122, is a male grizzly bear from Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. He has been described as a Canadian equivalent of Grizzly 399. It is believed that he fathered around half of the bear cubs in the park, and weighs between 600 and 700 pounds.
Life and activity
In August 2013, a trail was closed after he was found eating a black bear.[1] The bear has sometimes roamed into urban areas. Removals have been prompted of fruit trees to avoid attracting him.[2][3] Another bear in the area, Split Lip, is also well known and has come into conflict with The Boss.[4]
Popularity
The bear has gained a large following online, with many images of him shared on social media. Safety concerns have been raised, with warnings to keep distance.[5] The bear was the inspiration for the children's book The Little Grizzly Who Walked Like a Boss by author Victoria Tudor.[6]
See also
References
- ^ Ellis, Cathy (2024-11-14). "Younger male grizzly bears challenging the Boss' legendary, dominant status". Rocky Mountain Outlook. Retrieved 2026-01-31.
- ^ Ellis, Cathy (2024-11-04). "WATCH: Famous grizzly bear The Boss causes stir in Canmore neighbourhoods". Rocky Mountain Outlook. Retrieved 2026-01-31.
- ^ Ellis, Cathy (2023-10-20). "The Boss back in Banff prompts uptick in fruit tree removals". Rocky Mountain Outlook. Retrieved 2026-01-31.
- ^ Ellis, Cathy (2025-12-24). "Famed grizzly bear Split Lip shuts down ski race at Lake Louise". Rocky Mountain Outlook. Retrieved 2026-01-31.
- ^ Ellis, Cathy (2024-05-09). "'Wildlife paparazzi' putting pressure on Banff's grizzly bears: experts". Rocky Mountain Outlook. Retrieved 2026-01-31.
- ^ Lee, Jessica (2026-01-31). "The Boss trades Banff backcountry for bedtime in new children's book". Rocky Mountain Outlook. Retrieved 2026-01-31.