Hiker killed by grizzly bear in Yellowstone National Park

A man has been killed by a female grizzly bear whilst walking with his wife in Yellowstone National Park. The couple apparently surprised the bear and its cubs.

The attack was the first deadly bear attack in the Wyoming park since 1986.

A park statement said: “In an apparent attempt to defend a perceived threat to her cubs, the bear attacked and fatally wounded the man”.

Investigators have been interviewing the woman about the attack which occurred close to Canyon Village and near the middle of the park, spokesman Al Nash said.

Park officials have not taken any action against the bear, he said.

"This is complicated because of where this has occurred," Nash said.

"It is in the back country of the park, and we have access challenges and limited communication."

Park officials worked hard to make sure there were no other hikers in the area.

All trails and back-country campsites in the area have been closed and a warning sign has been installed on the trail.