We had the privilege of spending some time up in Southwest Alaska over the past few weeks. I had first come to this area over 20 years ago on a backpacking trip with a buddy of mine, exploring Aniakchak, Katmai NP, and Naknek Lake. The Alaska Peninsula is truly a pristine and unique area with amazing landscapes and wildlife. It is one of the most remote areas on the planet you can find. I captured over 2000 images with a special focus on it's most famous resident-the Alaska Brown Bear. Standing erect, they can measure over 10 feet tall and weigh as much as 1500 pounds.They converge on the rivers and streams in the area to feast on the abundant salmon runs that take place each summer. It was incredible to spend hours along the various waterways watching and photographing these amazing animals. When you look closely you begin to see how unique each bear truly is with it's own style and personality. Among them I saw mothers, fathers, cubs in their respective roles, but also nurturers, playboys, mischief makers, pirate and warriors. But first and foremost, I saw fishermen! Sockeye Salmon average about 5 pounds each and contain 4500 calories. A good day of fishing will bring in 30 of these fish. That's about the same number of calories as 270 cheeseburgers. Now that is what I call a big appetite! They need it though, as it is vital to the bear's survival to gain weight that will sustain them through their hibernation in the long, severe Alaskan winter. It was truly a spectacle to behold! Here are a few of my images. I will be loading more into our Gallery-"Alaska and Northern Canada" as I complete my processing over the new few weeks.
