“Hanging Out”, Black Bear Cubs, Anan Creek, Alaska – Image 2832

This spruce tree is probably the single most photographed tree in all of Alaska. It is a favorite hang out for bear cubs at Anan Creek. Being very close to the viewing platform, its comfortable branches provide an unbelievable viewing opportunity. The Anan Creek area has a black bear population of some 40 to 50 and another 15 to 20 brown bears. With all these different individuals fishing the creek, the mother bears are always looking for a safe place to store her cubs while she fishes. I used my 500mm F/4 lens for this shot but a 200 to 300mm would get you a good image. Additionally, I will be one of the two photo leaders on a week-long trip (August 20-August28,2013) through Southeast Alaska on board the 50-foot custom trawler “Delphinus” captained by my good friend, Ronn Patterson. The trip starts in Juneau and ends up in Wrangell. The trip will visit Anan Creek, pack Creek, Tracy Arm and the whales waters of Fredrick Sound. For more information contact Ronn at trips@dolphincharters.com or check out their website at www.dolphincharters.com. This image appears as my August image in my 2014 Southeast Alaska Calendar now celebrating its 20th year of publication. Thank you for visiting. Camera body: D700, lens: Nikkor 500mm f/4, tripod© Mark Kelley