McNeil River Bear Sanctuary, Alaska
                                              
During the summer salmon abundance and gathering of bears along McNeil Falls, competition for food can be intense.  Bears are very aware of their standing in the social hierarchy which often determines the quality of their fishing spots.  When not fishing, bears find refuge and safety among the grasses and alders of surrounding hillside.  They can often be found napping or simply relaxing after successfully fishing.  This image captured one of the most dominant males in the area in a tender moment; raising his head among the grasses to survey his surroundings.
 
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