Many sows and cubs have populated Kuliak Bay over the years. Thus, we’ve come to view it as a nursery. It is a small area. A stream meanders down two waterfalls. Numerous pools dot its path to the bay. Bears work the falls for fish and snorkel in the pools. Snorkeling is where the bears actually work the area with heads underwater looking for salmon then grabbing them as they swim by.

Below second falls snorkeling bruin.

Working the pool!

This sassy sow was proudly accompanied by her two 4-year-old troublemakers, fiercely guarding her prized fishing hole like it was the last free buffet on Earth. When another mama bear dared to stroll too close, a theatrical debate broke out! There were growls that could make an opera singer jealous and a gentle bear slap that said, “Back off, lady!” Ultimately, the intruder decided discretion was the better part of valor and waddled off about 8 feet, probably to find another less hostile lunch spot. Just another wild day in Katmai, where the drama is always thick!