Grizzly bears wrestling, Katmai National Park and Preserve, Alaska, United States

Bear with us. Grizzly bears, Katmai National Park and Preserve, United States

Millions of incredible animals roam, fly, swim and slither across our planet. Among the most iconic of these is the grizzly bear, a symbol of the American wilderness. Young grizzlies often 'play-fight' to build strength, sharpen skills and establish social bonds. These heavyweight champs can weigh up to 410 kilograms and still sprint faster than most humans. Once widespread across the western United States, grizzlies now primarily roam Alaska and parts of the Northern Rockies.

Male grizzly bears typically live around 22 years, while females tend to live longer—up to 26 years—largely because they avoid the risky breeding-season fights that males engage in. Generally solitary and active, grizzlies keep to themselves except for mothers with cubs. However, in coastal regions, they often congregate around rivers, lakes and streams during salmon spawning season.