The Wild Photographer

This is a video of dear Otis enjoying his catch. This was the end of the season, so Otis had already bulked up, making the skin and brains the only important parts for nutrition to help him through the winter months. The remainder of the salmon were left to float down stream to where the cows with their cubs were devouring the remains.

Brooks River, Katmai National Park, Alaska.

Posted in The Wild Photographer
3

5 Comments

Sort by:
Malcolm TurcotteAug 27, 2026

The selective feeding at the end of the season is something I didn't know about until I started reading more about bear behavior in Alaska. That progression down the river, the hierarchy of who gets what and when, it's a whole system. Brooks River during salmon season must be incredible to witness in person.

1

When I arrived at the National Park entry I had to undergo some 30 minutes of bear training. But it was the ranger at the falls that explained the end of season diet.

0

Yes, a very hierarchical dinner party

0
Luther HaagAug 27, 2026

Otis knows exactly what he needs and leaves the rest. That kind of efficiency is rare. The cows downstream get their turn, everyone gets fed, nothing wasted. Clean system.

0

A mini food chain within The Food chain. Nothing goes to waste.

1