The sight of a brown bear fishing in Alaska is one of the most iconic wildlife encounters in the world.
It presents a living postcard of raw wilderness and survival. Nick’s clipping provides some picturesque moments and a close-up of a bear’s daily exploits which few get to witness.
Brown bears are massive omnivores which often weigh between 300 and 600kg. They thrive along Alaska’s salmon-rich rivers, particularly in summer when the salmon runs transform waterways into hunting grounds.
The bear was determined to take full advantage of the salmon run and stood waiting as the fish swam upstream.
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Bear positions itself to catch salmon
With its thick, waterproof fur glistening from the spray, the bear waded through the shallow waters and then perched on a rocky ledge, over which the water fell in a glorious display.
The determined bear scanned the current with remarkable focus.
It was ready to strike out with a paw if needs be. However, for now patience was needed for the perfect moment when a fish passed by.
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Despite their size, brown bears can move with surprising speed and precision, lunging or swiping with a single paw to catch a fish mid-leap.
This behaviour is most famously observed in river areas where salmon hurl themselves upstream and bears wait patiently, knowing persistence will pay off.
Some bears prefer to snatch fish in mid-air, jaws snapping shut with incredible timing. Others simply pin the fish against rocks or the riverbed before delivering a fatal bite.
This bear observed the waters with commendable patience. Catching a fast-moving salmon is no easy feat and the animal was determined to get it right.
Each bear has its own fishing technique, learned over years of trial and error. Watching the bear was like seeing a master craftsman at work.
Salmon run provides bear with ample nutrition
The salmon run is critical for the bears’ survival, allowing them to consume tens of thousands of calories in a single day.
They eat the richest parts of the fish first. This includes the skin, brain, and eggs. They will then discard the rest, especially when the river teems with abundance.
This high-energy diet fuels the thick layer of fat they need to endure the long winter hibernation, when food is scarce and they can lose up to a third of their body weight.
The breathtaking scene was more than a hunting display. Nick captured a glimpse into a complex ecosystem.
As the bear feeds, scraps will fall into the river for gulls, ravens, and eagles to scavenge. This will support the growth of life by the river and beyond its banks.
The atmosphere during the sighting was electric as water gushed past. The roar of rushing water mixed with the guttural grunts of the bear and the splash of salmon breaking the surface.
The brave bear did not mind the trumpet of water all around it. It was adapted for survival and trained for this very moment.
