The Alaskan Bear – An Apex Predator

Encountering an Alaskan Brown Bear in the wild is a breathtaking experience. Immense and magnificent creatures that are quintessentially Alaskan. They dominate the wild landscape – especially during the summer salmon runs.

I captured this image at Anan Creek which is located on the mainland, 30 miles southeast of Wrangell, Alaska in the Tongass National Forest. The creek has one of the largest runs of pink salmon in Southeast Alaska. It supports a high density of black bears as well as brown bears. It is one of the few places in the world where brown and black bears share the same fishing spots.

The bears must fish in proximity to one another so they have learned to tolerate the presence of other animals. This ability plus the abundance of food makes them relatively nonchalant about the presence of humans. That said – a properly armed U.S. Forest Service Ranger guides people to the main viewing area along the creek! While everyone enjoys an image of a massive bear feeding on salmon, I like this image of a sow and her cubs as well.

While sows will fiercely defend their cubs from predators, as you see in this image they are very maternal in providing food, protection, and teaching them essential survival skills.

Anan Creek is a wonderful place to watch the behavior of bears. The social hierarchy between the brown and black bears was very evident. Each bear waited for their turn at the specific fishing spot. When a bear tried to “jump the line” they were swiftly dealt with by the other bears.

Prints Available:
This Alaskan Bear shot is now available as a fine art print in multiple sizes. Printed on premium archival paper, it will bring a natural presence to your space.