Squaring Off

Salmon fishing in Alaska many times is about prime fishing holes. That's true whether it's the human fishermen all lined up in a "combat" fishing situation ... and it's the same with the brown bears. It's so much fun to watch them as they take their favorite spots. Of course, these spots are determined by dominance. However there are times when the dominant bear is not in their spot .... so at that point, all dibs are off. Until of course, when they return ... then the squaring off ensues. It begins with the head hanging and slow approach of the "owner" bear and the nervous anticipation of the "invader" bear. Then low growls and mouthing continues and eventually it ends up being loud growls and teeth baring ... stand-up wrestling is also common. Most times the confrontation is quick because bears for the most part know their own place in hierarchy, though challengers are part of the learning process. Sometimes life lessons are inflicted and injury results ... a slash from the opposing bear's claws, a chunk of meat bitten into ... thankfully I have not witnessed worse in person.

 

I just love to watch these amazing bears ... and hope you like seeing images of them too.

 

Happy Friday!

© Debbie Tubridy Photography

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