Always curious, and always close to mom.
This is my third post showing highlights guiding June and July trips to the Katmai Coast in 2017, which was one of my best stretches of bear photography I have experienced in years. This post will show the spring cub magic. Every year is different out there, and some years it is really tough to find spring cubs, or cubs born last December. Some years, like this one, are amazing. We had four families at least, all with tolerant mothers. These six month old cubs are hilarious, goofy, frightened, gawky little bears exploring the world for the first time. There can’t be a cuter animal on the planet. Here are some scenes of magical spring cubs in one of the most beautiful places on earth. It’s been a month since I was out there and even still when I close my eyes I see spring cubs. That’s OK with me.
We were waiting for this beautiful mother and her spring cubs to wake from a nap for an hour. When she did, she came close to us, interacted with her cubs, and then looked right at me as if to say “Thank you for being respectful and patient. Here you go, I know what you want to see.” I have known this female since she was a spring cub. Moments like this can’t be described in words or images.
The two tiny cubs played for half an hour after waking from their nap.
Milk snack after nap and playtime….
Playtime on the beach.
Mom is always looking for a chance to rest. The cubs are always looking for a chance to be close to their mother, who loves them so much, and dedicates her life to their welfare.
Stand up lessons.
LOL!
That’s it, guys!!!
Watching a family of four dig clams on the flats in June.
Going clamming.
Working the reef at low tide for sandlance fish, barnacles, clams and marine worms.
What can I say? Here’s to those beautiful bears….
11 Comments
thanks, Brad, nice shots and story, Fred
This is one trip I didn’t make- Old age caught up and my travel days are over. Thanks for the postings. Makes me remember the Churchill trips!
The cubs expressions are delightful. You captured their love for their mother. What amazing images.
Wonderful photographs of bears living as bears, thank you for sharing
Incredible shots Brad, thanks for sharing!
Great shots! The spring cubs were my favorite, too, when I was lucky enough to see them myself this July.
Amazing!! Such incredible imagery!!
Amazing photos Brad, love the 3 cubs hanging out together!
Wonderful! These are BEAUTIFUL!
Great job. What special animals.
Great pictures, Brad! I truly enjoy your narrative as well.
Awesome shots as always Brad. Gotta luv spring cubs, I know I do. They are so innocent, playful and curious……. all of which you captured in these pics. Really loved the “stand up lesson” series, way to cute !!! Thanks again for sharing your love of bears with all of us and our love of bears !!