Winter Brown Bear (Ursus arctos)

Observation by Delores Anderson:

This bear was first spotted in Port Heiden at a remote residential area (Trapper Hill), then went through the Old Hudd town site, passed the school, and continued on to the Meshik Bay. This is a rare sighting to observe a brown bear in January. I believe he's starving so he was forced out of hibernation.

Lem Butler, Wildlife Biologist with Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G), writes:

Brown bear activity during the winter is not common, but it’s not unheard of. In the past, we’ve received reports of bear activity during every month of the year on the Alaska Peninsula, even though the vast majority are in their dens from Nov 15 – May 15. Bears sighted during the winter are often older bears that aren’t in good enough condition to spend the winter in their dens. However, we have seen bears abandon den sites that have been disturbed, and we’ve also seen orphaned cubs that are still active as late as January. Bears that are active during the winter should be given extra space. The bear may be more prone to aggressive behavior if it is hungry or if it’s been recently disturbed. If the bear does exhibit unusual behavior, the individual or community should contact the King Salmon ADF&G office (907-246-3340) or the Alaska Troopers (907-246-3307) as soon as possible. Public safety is always the first priority, so the bear can be killed (if necessary) to defend life or property before contacting the state. We appreciate updates on bear activity during the winter (unusual behavior or not).

Alaska Department of Public Safety Update: (2014-01-22)

Sergeant Scott Quist, AWT writes, "We had bear sightings here in King Salmon until the third week in December and have had reports of two bear being caught in traps in the past couple of months so I am not at all surprised to hear of a bear sighting in Port Heiden. We have had a great deal of warm weather and rain which has likely flooded a few dens and made for uncomfortable sleeping. I would not be surprised to hear of more sightings. I agree that public safety is of paramount importance and would strongly suggest that if a bear is encountered, give it a wide berth and if it acts aggressive please let us know." Source: ADPS Division of Alaska Wildlife Troopers