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503 September 2021 NPS photo 2022 Bears of Brooks River book page 75

503 September 2021 NPS photo

Adult Male ~ 2017 and after

Independent Subadult Male in July 2014, then Adopted thus Returning to Dependent Yearling in July 2014 and 2015,  then again Returning to Independent Subadult Again in 2016

Year First Identified:  2014 as a 1.5 year-old subadult (402's abandoned yearling)

Year Last Observed: 2024

Known Offspring Of:  402 (2013 litter)  Abandoned in July 2014 / Adopted by 435 Holly in July 2014

Genetics Study Samples Obtained:  503 was successfully darted by Ranger Michael Saxton in 2016 (prior to October 18, 2016)

Identification:[]

503 continues to be quite large for his age and his tall lanky legs remain a helpful identifying feature. He has prominent crescent shaped ears and dark eye rings.

Mckate's 503 Cubadult Playlist

503's Identification Information from his Subadult Years (prior seasons): 503 Cubadult is a medium-small subadult bear, but is quite large for his age and has tall, lanky legs.  In July his fur is light to medium-brown.  He has dark eye rings and a dark face.  His neck and head are last to shed.  In the fall, his fur darkens to a grizzled-brown, and is slightly lighter on his head and neck.  He has a protruding lower lip, tall brown ears, and dark claws.

Meet Bear 503 Cubadult Explore video by Mike Fitz

Meet_Bear_503_-_Bears_of_Brooks_Falls

Meet Bear 503 - Bears of Brooks Falls

Explore video by Mike Fitz

Distinctive Behaviors:[]

In 2016 and 2017, throughout the summer, 503 Cubadult was seen fishing and scavenging in all areas of the river.  He even succeeded in fishing the "jacuzzi", and the lip of the falls.  503 appeared willing to fish near other bears and anglers.  503 often plays with other subadults and young adult bears, including 151 Walker, 289, 602, and adopted sibling 719.  

Life History:[]

503 Cubadult has a unique life history.  As a cub, 503 originally belonged to 402, but after an unusually timed series of events, he was abandoned by his biological mother in early July 2014.  Most cubs are pushed away by their mothers in the spring after two to three (rarely four) summers.  As a lone and small yearling, he faced many threats to his survival, not the least of which was other bears.  Since he was then independent and observed during several bear monitoring sessions, he was assigned #503.  

By the end of July, he was adopted by 435 Holly , a female with a single spring cub (now known as #719).  435 Holly treated her adopted yearling just like her biological female spring cub.  She allowed him to nurse, take fish from her, and play with the spring cub.  We will never know 435 Holly's reasons for adopting the yearling with any certainty, but bears, even young bears, are adaptable and smart.  They possess the ability to recognize favorable situations and take advantage of them.  In 503's case, the reward (protection, food) was worth taking the risk (intolerant bear, injury, death) of approaching a strange bear.  If he had approached an intolerant female too closely, he could have been injured or killed.  Instead, his strategy helped to ensure his survival into subadulthood.  

435 Holly continued to raise 503 Cubadult through 2015 and emancipated him along with her biological cub (719) in spring of 2016.  

503 Cubadult overcame significant challenges as a cub with resilience and adaptability.  In 2016 and 2017 he faced another difficult time in the life of a brown bear: subadulthood.  His survival and success depended on the lessons he had learned and tested his abilities in new, challenging ways.  

Cam viewer, Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) created this video:  The Story of Bear 503 Cubadult .:

Please note:  503 Cubadult's biological mother, 402 has never officially been nicknamed "Brooke".  402 has been given many cam viewer given nicknames over the years, "Brooke" is just one of the many.  Other's include "Beauty" and "Heart Attack"

The_story_of_Bear_503_Cubadult_by_Deanne_Dittloff_(aka_deelynnd)

The story of Bear 503 Cubadult by Deanne Dittloff (aka deelynnd)

2013:[]

503 Cubadult was one of three spring cubs born to 402, her 5th known litter.  More photos and videos of 503 as a spring cub in 2013 will be available on 402's wiki page when it is created.

2013 Season:[]

402 and her three spring cubs (503 Cubadult is believed to be one of them) can be seen in this video by Kara Stenberg.  409 Beadnose and her 3 yearlings (500 Indy and 717 are believed to be two of them) are the 1st sow and cubs seen in the video.  Footage of 402 and her 3 spring cubs (503 Cubadult) begins at 1:39 and continues at 2:18.  89 Backpack and 32 Chunk can be seen beginning at 3:08.    

Brooks_Bears_In_Camp_2013_by_Kara_Stenberg-1551561559

Brooks Bears In Camp 2013 by Kara Stenberg-1551561559

Park visitor Justin Gibson captured this video of 402 and her two spring cubs playing.:

Brown_Bear_Spring_Cubs_Play_with_Mom_by_Justin_Gibson_(2013_season?)

Brown Bear Spring Cubs Play with Mom by Justin Gibson (2013 season?)

Theresa Bielawski shared photos of 402 and her 3 spring cubs on 1/10/2021. One of these cubs is 503. Theresa commented "Here is 503 his first year in 2013 - not sure which one is him. One pic looks like a 4th cub, but just mom's back leg." Photo #1 is 402 with her 3 spring cubs, photos #2 and #3 are the 3 spring cubs, photo #4 is one spring cub.


Please request Theresa Bielawski's permission prior to using her photographs!

July 2013:[]

2013.07.10:  SandyK29 captured this photo of 402 and her 3 spring cubs at Brooks Camp.  SandyK29 also captured this photo of 402's three spring cubs.  503 is one of the three spring cubs.

2013.07.16 Approximately 18:40:  

At approximately 8:00 into this video by MsDebbiB two of 402's three spring cubs wash over the falls.  Female ear 813 Nostril Bear is the bear that approaches the cubs and 402 reacts to.  

2_of_402's_3_spring_cubs_wash_over_the_falls_07_16_2013_video_by_MsDebbiB

2 of 402's 3 spring cubs wash over the falls 07 16 2013 video by MsDebbiB

Park visitor Gusty Stambaugh's video of 402 and her 3 spring cubs captures parts of what the BF live cam misses in MsDebbiB's video above:

402_with_3_spring_cubs_07_16_2013_approximately_18_40_by_Gusty_Stambaugh

402 with 3 spring cubs 07 16 2013 approximately 18 40 by Gusty Stambaugh

Explore also provided this highlight video on the event that includes slow motion of some segments:

2_of_402's_3_spring_cubs_wash_over_the_falls_07_16_2013_highlights_video_with_some_slow_motion_by_Explore

2 of 402's 3 spring cubs wash over the falls 07 16 2013 highlights video with some slow motion by Explore

On 07/17/2013 at 09:10 Ranger Mike comments about 402's cubs washing over the falls on 07/16/2013:

"I just got a chance to watch the video of 402’s cubs getting swept over the falls. These cams really give great insight into the dramas of nature.

402 will regularly fish the lip of the falls, even when she is caring for cubs. She is unconsciously weighing the risks of fishing at Brooks Falls versus the reward of food. There may be many other places along Brooks River to fish, but at this time of year none are typically as rewarding as Brooks Falls.

As many of you know, cubs do face many risks in their young lives. In the video, the cubs are swept over the falls as they attempt to follow their mother into the river. Spring cubs (also called cubs of the year) cannot swim nearly as well as an adult bear. The current was too strong for them and they were swept over.

One bear standing below the falls noticeably reacts to the cubs in the water. Just before the cubs were swept over, the bear was facing away from them. It appears that the other bear reacted to the objects washing over the falls. Bears are adapted to take advantage of situations where food is provided to them. If, for example, a beaver had washed over the falls then the bear might also have attacked it.

All of the bears at the falls were once small cubs like 402’s current litter and they all faced the same risks. 402’s protectiveness may have saved one or more of her offspring last night. When you are watching nature’s drama unfold at the falls, be prepared to witness some harsh realities."

On 07/24/2013 Ranger Mike shared this information:

"402 will regularly fish the lip of the falls, even when she is caring for cubs. She is unconsciously weighing the risks of fishing at Brooks Falls versus the reward of food. There may be many other places along Brooks River to fish, but at this time of year none are typically as rewarding as Brooks Falls.

As many of you know, cubs do face many risks in their young lives. In the video, the cubs are swept over the falls as they attempt to follow their mother into the river. Spring cubs (also called cubs of the year) cannot swim nearly as well as an adult bear. The current was too strong for them and they were swept over.

Interestingly, the bear that appears to go towards the cubs after they get caught in the current is a female, although this can’t be determined from watching the video. I’ve seen this bear several other times at Brooks Falls.

Male bears will kill cubs, but females will as well. The female bear standing below the falls noticeably reacts to the cubs in the water. Just before the cubs were swept over, this bear was facing away from them. It appears that the other bear reacted to the objects washing over the falls. Bears are adapted to take advantage of situations where food is provided to them, and they are conditioned to attack nearly everything that is in the water at the falls. Almost always this means salmon. However, if, for example, a beaver had washed over the falls then the bear might also have attacked it.

All of the bears at the falls were once small cubs like 402’s current litter and they all faced the same risks. 402’s protectiveness may have saved one or more of her offspring. When you are watching nature’s drama unfold at the falls, be prepared to witness some harsh realities."

Add here

2013.07.20:  402 with her 3 spring cubs (503 Cubadult is one of them) video by MsDebbiB.:

A_Momma_Bear_with_Three_Little_Cubs_July_20,_2013_by_MsDebbiB_(402_503)-0

A Momma Bear with Three Little Cubs July 20, 2013 by MsDebbiB (402 503)-0

2013.07.21: 402's 3 spring cubs, 7/21/2013 photo by mjtseng. 503 is one of these cubs.

2013.07.22: Bernard Palate's 7/22/2013 photo of 402's 3 spring cubs. 503 is one of these cubs.

2013.07.23:  402 with 3 spring cubs (503 is one of the three spring cubs) video by Live Video and Web Cams of the World:

402_and_her_3_spring_cubs_(503_is_one_of_them)_07_23_2013_video_by_Live_Video_and_Web_Cams_of_the_World

402 and her 3 spring cubs (503 is one of them) 07 23 2013 video by Live Video and Web Cams of the World

2013.07.24:  402 with 3 spring cubs (503 is one of the three cubs) video by 60windy.

402_and_3_spring_cubs_07_24_2013_video_by_60windy

402 and 3 spring cubs 07 24 2013 video by 60windy

September 2013:[]

2013.09.13:  Ranger Jeanne captured these photos of 402 with her 3 spring cubs;  #1 , #2 , & #3 . 2013.09.25:  402 lost one of these spring cubs in September 2013 when the cub was fatally injured up near Lake Brooks. Rangers Roy Wood and Mike Fitz discuss the cub's death in this Explore video published on 9/25/2013 (7:38-13:46). Ranger Wood states "the injuries were consistent with an adult bear biting it at least one time and probably shaking it."

"Riverside_Chat"_with_Rangers_Wood_and_Fitz_EXPLORE_LIVE_CHAT,_09_25_2013

"Riverside Chat" with Rangers Wood and Fitz EXPLORE LIVE CHAT, 09 25 2013

October 2013:[]

2013.10.11:  402 with her two remaining spring cubs at approximately 15:15 AKDT video by Linda Jett.:

Brooke_402_and_2_cubs_315pm_2_October_11,_2013_by_Linda_Jett

Brooke 402 and 2 cubs 315pm 2 October 11, 2013 by Linda Jett

2013.10.22:  KNP&P Ranger Mike Fitz traveled to Brooks Camp to do lower river live cam repairs.  On his adventure, he observed 402 and her two remaining spring cubs and shared these photos:

2014:[]

503 was a yearling in 2014, the only remaining offspring from 402's 2013 litter of 3 spring cubs.  More photos and information about 503 as a dependent yearling, prior to being emancipated by 402 are available on 402's wiki page.  

2014 Season:[]

2014.??.??: Explore's video "503 Finds a New Family | Memorable Moments in Bearcam History" published on August 22, 2022. Mike Fitz narrates the story of yearling 503 Cubadult finding his new family, 435 Holly and her spring cub 719.

503_Finds_a_New_Family_-_Memorable_Moments_In_Bear_Cam_History

503 Finds a New Family - Memorable Moments In Bear Cam History

Video by Explore

June 2014:[]

2014.06.22:  

402 returned to Brooks Camp with 503, her one remaining yearling from her 2013 litter of three spring cubs.  The family group was captured in this video by Various Videos1 (aka LucyB-MA):

402_and_her_remaining_male_yearling_06_22_2014_video_by_Various_Video1

402 and her remaining male yearling 06 22 2014 video by Various Video1

Cam viewers captured these snapshots of the family group.

NEED TO ADD CAM VIEWER PHOTOS HERE

2014.06.27 - 2014.06.29:  Ranger Jeanne observed 402 with her remaining male yearling at Brooks Camp.  Ranger Jeanne has the following photos of 503 when he was 402's dependent yearling on her flicker:  402's yearling 06/29/2014  & 402's yearling 06/29/2014

July 2014:[]

The following July 2014 NPS photos are available of 503 Cubadult from the Bears of Brooks River books:

2014.07.??:  402 and her remaining yearling (now known as 503 Cubadult), still bonded as a family group, can be seen in this video by 117jmg from the 3:27 - 3:45 and 4:31 - 4:50 marks:

Gregory_Katmai_Brooks_Falls_July_2014_video_by_117jmg-0

Gregory Katmai Brooks Falls July 2014 video by 117jmg-0

2014.07.??:  503 was photographed shaking off water by Alexey Tishchenko in July 2014.    Alexey's photos can be seen in:

Wild Thing! The grizzly bear that likes to boogie by Benjamin Russell

and 

FUR-iller: boogying bear practices iconic dance routine by Caters News Agency

2014.07.??:  Jimmie Robinson captured video of 402 and her remaining yearling (now known as 503 Cubadult) fishing the lip at Brooks Falls. In the beginning of the footage (6:33-9:34) , the yearling can be seen clinging to the wall as he is struggling not to wash over the falls.

Brooks_Falls_Alaska,_video_by_Jimmie_Robinson

Brooks Falls Alaska, video by Jimmie Robinson

2014.07.??  In a July photo by Laura Lyn Photography 402 is seen with her yearling on top of the fish ladder by Brooks Falls. 

2014.07.??:  402 and her yearling were photographed on the beach by photographer Vanshion. The exact dates are not known, photo #1photo #2 and photo #3.

2014.07.?? Joan Wallner captured 2 photos of 402 when she still had 503 with her, #1 and #2.

Joan Wallner also recorded a July, 2014 video of 402 with 503.

Grizzly_mom_with_yearling

Grizzly mom with yearling

July 2014 video by WallnerPhotos

Joan Wallner's July, 2014 photo of 503 treed. It is unclear which separation this was. Joan Wallner's comment "This yearling cub became separated from his mom, so climbed a tree for safety in the middle of Brooks Camp at Katmai National Park. This is the cub that was adopted by the famous grizzly mom, Holly, in 2014."

2014.07.01:  July 1, 2014 was a stressful day for a lone yearling cub (now 503), 402 his biological mother, and NPS rangers at Brooks Camp.  Around 10:00 AM 402 and her yearling cub were fishing at the mouth of the Brooks River. 

The yearling swam across the river as 402 fished downstream.  402 lost track of the yearling and did not know where he was.  The yearling didn't seem to know where 402 was either.  402 began searching for the yearling on the opposite side of the river.  Shortly after the family was separated, 402 disappeared into the forest at the mouth of the Brooks River. 

By this time, the yearling walked and ran to Brooks Lodge where he climbed a tree just outside of the lodge.  With a few hundred people moving by Brooks Lodge, the yearling was not coming down quickly.  Having a lone cub treed in camp with no mother to be found was unprecedented.  The rangers initially hoped that 402 would catch the cub's scent and track it into camp.  Mother bears will call their cubs down out of trees with a huff.  This time, 402 was missing in action. 

The cub was very high in the tree.  Rangers knew he was stressed, but had no way to get him out of the tree.  The yearling had to come down on its own.  At approximately 17:30, the yearling decided to climb down the tree.  Rangers instructed park visitors, NPS and lodge staff to enter buildings, stay out of the cub's line of sight, and give it space to go on it's way.  Any noise could startle the cub and cause him to climb up the tree again.  As the yearling reached the base of the tree a plane started its engine and spooked the cub, sending it back up the tree. 

Just before 18:00 the yearling climbed back down the tree and left the lodge area on it's own.  402 was still nowhere to be found.  The cub walked along the beach of Naknek Lake away from the lodge and toward the campground.  Possibly uncomfortable without its mother, he soon returned to the lodge area and climbed a tree.   

Finally shortly before 19:55, the cub came out of the tree.  402's whereabouts were still unknown.  Several NPS rangers worked hard to keep people inside buildings.  With no planes on the beach of Naknek Lake, the yearling had free reign.  The yearling,  still alone, wanted its mother.  He tried to return to the lodge, but eventually left that area and at approximately 19:58 walked back toward the river approaching the corner where live cam viewers could see him from the lower river cam thanks to Ranger Roy Wood, Chief of Interpretation and Education at KNP&P who immediately jumped on the lower river cam controls while monitoring radio traffic.  Not knowing how the yearlings return to the river would play out, Ranger Roy also joined viewers in the comments. 

The lone yearling approached the bank of the Brooks River just off the corner and began to bawl.  Cubs bawl when they are hungry or otherwise trying to get mother's attention.  The yearling's bawling clearly got the attention of one bear that swan across the river towards it.  To the amazement of many viewing this, the bear that was approaching the cub was 402, his biological mother.  402 must have been near the mouth of the river and heard the yearling bawling.  Miraculously, 402 and her yearling were reunited later that evening at approximately 20:08 after the yearling spent nearly 10 hours treed near Brooks Lodge.  The family was last seen moving upriver into the forest.  

Bearcam viewers captured these snapshots of the yearling approaching the corner where he bawled for his mother and was eventually reunited with her approximately 7 minutes later. 

Explore created this highlight video of 402 and her yearling being reunited.  402's yearling appears near the corner at approximately 19:58 and begins bawling for his mother.  402 and her yearling are reunited at approximately 20:08.

402_and_her_yearling_cub_are_reunited_July_1,_2014_Explore_Highlight_video

402 and her yearling cub are reunited July 1, 2014 Explore Highlight video

Explore also created this video that is similar to the version above...except this version also includes snips of Ranger Roy's and cam viewer's comments as they were watching this amazing event unfold.  I doubt you will be sorry if you invest the time to watch both.:

402_and_remaining_male_yearling_reunited_07_01_2014_video_by_Explore_(includes_snips_of_Ranger_Roy's_&_bearcam_viewer's_comments)

402 and remaining male yearling reunited 07 01 2014 video by Explore (includes snips of Ranger Roy's & bearcam viewer's comments)


Ranger Roy lets cam viewers know that KNP&P interpretation staff will sort through the events of the day and get back with cam viewers:

2014.07.02:  The challenges NPS staff and park visitors faced on 07/01/2014 when 402's yearling treed himself for nearly ten hours less than 50 yards from the back door of the lodge kitchen and dining hall in close proximity to many Brooks Lodge buildings prompted Ranger Mike Fitz to share this KNP&P Terrane blog:  The Challenges of Managing Bears and People at Brooks Camp .

2014.07.04:  Ranger Jeanne's photo of 402 with yearling .  

2014.07.08:  Explore ustream highlight video of 402 and yearling 503 together at the falls on 07/08/2014:  Click here to view highlight video on ustream   (Note:  Since this is ustream video, it may become no longer available.  We are trying to see if Explore can make it available on YouTube)

Stmango's video of the same footage of 402 and 503 together at the falls on 07/08/2014:

402_&_yearling_503_7_8_2014_video_by_Stmango

402 & yearling 503 7 8 2014 video by Stmango

Cam viewer Janie Nook captured this video of 402's male yearling as he learns from 402 while she fishes the lip of the falls:

402's_remaining_male_yearling_(now_503)_as_he_learns_from_402_while_she_fishes_the_lip_07_08_2014_by_Janie_Nook-0

402's remaining male yearling (now 503) as he learns from 402 while she fishes the lip 07 08 2014 by Janie Nook-0

Bud Marschner captured these photos (#1 & #2 ) of 402 and her remaining yearling (503) on July 8, 2014.  Bud Marschner describes the first as a family portrait, of course not realizing they would be some of the last portraits of the family group.  Bud also captured this photo of 435 Holly and her spring cub (719) the day before the photos of 402 and yearling 503.

Between 2014.07.01 and 2014.07.09: Theresa Bielawski photographed 402 with her yearling cub 503 during her July 2014 trip to Brooks Camp, photos #1, #2, #3, #4 and #5. Theresa shared these photos on 1/10/2021. Theresa explained that the photos were taken after the first separation of 503 from 402, so these photos were taken between 7/1/2014 and 7/9/2014. "Here is 503 in 2014. Mom had left him in camp a few days, reunited with him, then abandoned him for good. These were taken the week 402 was reunited with him before she abandoned him for good."

Please request Theresa Bielawski's permission prior to using her photographs!

2014.07.09:

On the night of 07/09/2014, 402's remaining male yearling (503) was observed in a spruce tree approximately 100 meters behind the Brooks Falls wildlife viewing platform.  (see Ranger Mike's 07/11/2014 12:28 comments snips below)

It is possible that this video captured by park visitors, laddnshirl is footage from the last time that 856 separated 402 from her 1.5 year-old yearling (now known as 503).  

402_and_her_yearling_(503)_being_separated_by_856_video_by_laddnshirl-0

402 and her yearling (503) being separated by 856 video by laddnshirl-0

2014.07.10:  On the morning of 07/10/2014, 402's remaining male yearling (503) was observed in the same tree approximately 100 meters behind the Brooks Falls wildlife viewing platform that he was observed in on the night of 07/09/2014.  The yearling was still in the tree at 21:00 on 07/10/2014 (see Ranger Mike's 07/11/2014 12:28 comments snips below).  When Ranger Mike walked by the area of the tree around 22:00 on 07/10/2014, he did hear the cub bawling a little.  

2014.07.11: 

On the morning of 07/11/2014, 402's remaining male yearling (503) was no longer in the tree 100 meters behind the Brooks Falls wildlife viewing platform.  856 is still following 402 and the whereabouts of 402's remaining male yearling is not known.

Ranger Mike Fitz comments on 07/11/2014 at 12:28 about what has been observed of 402, her remaining male yearling (503), and 856 from 07/09/2014 - 07/11/2014:

Ranger Mike also shared this 07/11/2014 KNP&P blog:  Surprises of the Bear World .

2014.07.13:  Ranger Jeanne comments that she has no new information on 402's remaining yearling (503), but she has observed 402 twice this morning being pursued by 856.  Ranger Jeanne said that 402 is ranging about half mile down river from the falls since she observed 856 pursuing 402 in the oxbow area.  When asked if in her experience she would say that 402's remaining yearling was on his own to survive, Ranger Jeanne replied that she has never seen a sow without one of her cubs for such a long period of time and then experienced them reuniting.  Ranger Jeanne said she has also never observed a male bear pursue a female in the way that resembles courting while she still had a dependent cub.  She said she observed 402 quite a bit this weekend, but never with her cub.  She said it does not necessarily mean that the cub is definitely on its own, but Ranger Jeanne did not personally see them together.:

2014.07.14:  Ranger Mike updates the Surprises of the Bear World KNP&P blog from 07/11/2014.  

"856 was still following 402 on Sunday (07/13/2014). Reports of 856 following a different female may have been erroneous.

I watched 402’s former yearling cub wander through Brooks Camp alone at 8 AM this morning. A ranger also reported seeing it alone on Saturday morning (07/12/2014). 402 appears to have abandoned this cub. Why? I don’t know. Bears might abandon their cubs if the cubs are too weak to keep up or if the mother can’t devote the energy needed to support the cubs. I also don’t know if this cub is truly abandoned. Although very rare, mother bears have been separated from their cubs for over 2 weeks before reuniting. We haven’t observed 402 abandon a cub before, but this behavior is not unprecedented amongst brown bears.

It’s also important to note that 856 showed no interest in the yearling during the past week. His actions indicate that he is interested in mating with 402. He was never seen chasing the yearling or even investigating the yearling when it was treed near Brooks Falls. His consistent pursuit of 402 certainly didn’t help the yearling, but he may not have been the reason for its abandonment. 402 may have gone into estrus and abandoned the yearling anyway.

Is 402 a “bad” mother for abandoning her yearling? It would seem so from a human perspective, but we cannot define or label bears with our system of cultural norms, ethics, and morals. Bears and wild animals exist in a world outside of these things. 402 doesn’t have the ability to control her estrus cycle, no more so than a woman can. If she went back into estrus (which appears likely now), then 856 or any other adult male would be looking to mate with her. She would be unable to care for a cub while being closely pursued by a dominant adult male.

402’s former yearling cub should now be called a subadult bear since it is now appears to be on its own. It faces an uphill battle to survive this summer."

Park visitor Rodney Preisch appears to have captured a photo of 402's yearling on the beach on 7/15/2014.

2014.07.16 Approximately 15:00:  Ranger Sheri Anderson, KNP&P Wildlife Biologist observes 503 eating a fish on the trail to the campground that he caught himself and captured this photo:

You can see Ranger Roy show the photo from Ranger Sheri's phone at approximately 38:00 into this live chat video from 07/16/2014:

Approximately_38_00_into_this_Live_Chat_video_you_can_see_Ranger_Roy_show_the_photo_of_503_with_the_fish_he_caught.

Approximately 38 00 into this Live Chat video you can see Ranger Roy show the photo of 503 with the fish he caught.

2014.07.17:  435 Holly and her spring cub (719) were observed on the lower river cam alone (503 was not with them at this time), gif by Juergen can be viewed here .  

2014.07.18:  503, now an independent subadult bear, is treed near Brooks Lodge again.  Ranger Mike goes live from near Brooks Lodge where 503 is treed.  Video by Various Videos1 (aka LucyB-MA):  

503_treed_near_Brooks_Lodge_~_Ranger_Mike_goes_live_07_18_2014_video_by_Various_Videos1_(aka_LucyB-MA)

503 treed near Brooks Lodge ~ Ranger Mike goes live 07 18 2014 video by Various Videos1 (aka LucyB-MA)

Explore recorded a longer video of Of Mike Fitz's 7/18/2014 live chat. Comment by CalliopeJane (Tina Crowe) below the video at YouTube: "So nice that three days later he was with Holly at Margot Creek."

Bear_cub_in_a_tree_with_Ranger_Mike_EXPLORE_LIVE_CHAT,_7_18_2014

Bear cub in a tree with Ranger Mike EXPLORE LIVE CHAT, 7 18 2014

2014.07.20 (Sunday):

402 and 856 were observed mating per Ranger Mike's 07/22/2014 comment:

"Last night (07/21/2014) Ranger Jeanne hinted that I had some news to share. I’d like to watch the speculation run wild, but you don’t need to be on the edge any longer than necessary.

First of all, it is not about 489 Ted. We still haven’t seen him. The news that I have isn’t that earth shattering. In fact, for those of you following the bears closely over the past two weeks, it might be an expected event.

Last Sunday (07/20/2014), 856 and 402 mated near Brooks Falls. This confirms what many of us suspected – that 402 was in estrus. Like I’d written about previously, this is odd because she still had a yearling cub to attend to until it was left to fend for itself around July 9. Bears are full of surprises though.

I would be even more surprised if 402 reunites with her former cub, now a 1.5-year-old subadult bear, since she has mated. For now, I’m going to assume she’ll follow the “typical” pattern for a single adult female and go her own way. The 1.5-year-old will have to fend for itself (by the way, we haven’t seen that bear in a few days to the best of my knowledge)."

Let’s not forget about 856 and his need either. He followed 402 for about 11 days waiting for the opportunity to mate. As a very dominant bear, he can take advantage of these situations because no other bear has challenged him for females this summer. He’s much thinner, however, than other large males like 747 and 814 Lurch, so 856 was sacrificing weight for the opportunity to sire more offspring."

Park visitor, Tim Auer was in the perfect place at the perfect time (just like CalliopeJane always seems to be) and not only observed 402 and 856 mating, but he also captured some incredible photographs of the mating pair .  After returning from his trip to Brooks Camp, Tim Auer posted in the bearcam comments to share the experience You can see more of Tim Auer's photos (here) , and read his blog about his observations of 402 and 856 mating on his blog at this link:  After Hours: The Story of 856 and 402 by Tim Auer Katmai After Hours: The Story of 856 and 402 by Tim Auer .  Tim's friend and fellow wildlife photographer, Meril, was also with him when 402 and 856 were observed mating.  You can view Meril's photos here .

In a 7/20/2018 Explore blog titled "How does a bear family break up", Mike Fitz reflects back on the events surrounding 503 Cubadult's separation from 402. He writes "At the time, and until somewhat recently, I stated that 402 had “abandoned” her yearling (now known as 503). While this might be true in a sense, I no longer think that this is an accurate way of describing the event. After reading more about the emancipation process, I’ve come to believe 402 didn’t abandon her yearling in 2014. She emancipated him."  

2014.07.25:  

KNP&P visitor and bearcam viewer CalliopeJane (aka Tina Crowe) visited Margot Creek on 07/25/2014 on guided tour with Naknek River Camp and took photos of a sow with 2 cubs. The sow appears to be 435 Holly with 1 small, dark spring cub and 1 blond yearling. 435 Holly was seen earlier this summer on the Brooks River with 1 spring cub. The blond yearling may be bear 402's emancipated yearling, known informally as the "cubadult". 

CalliopeJane reported observing the sow and cubs for an hour before they ran off into the woods. At this point it is not clear if 435 Holly is merely tolerating the presence of the yearling or if she has "adopted" it and will continue to allow it to stay with her and her spring cub.  Tina captured these photos:

Please request Tina Crowe's permission prior to using her photos!

Photographer Dan Holmes appears to have been at Margot Creek at the same time as CalliopeJane (Tina Crowe). Mr. Holmes published a blog on 9/11/2014 in which he discusses his observations of 435 Holly's blended family and posted 11 photos of 435 Holly, her spring cub 719 and her adopted yearling 503. The blog title is "Holly and the Abandoned Cub-Katmai National Park and Preserve."


2014.07.27:  Ranger Jeanne and Ranger Roy have a behind the scenes conversation about Tina Crowe's (aka CalliopeJane) photos of a sow with two cubs (one smaller spring cub and one larger yearling) Tina posted from her time at Margot Creek:

[7/27/14 10:08:54 PM] Jeanne: Are you still there? If so, look at my account and check out the pictures CalliopeJane posted from her trip to Margot. It looks like 435 Holly with a spring cub and a yearling.


[7/27/14 10:21:40 PM] Roy: Your Flickr account?


[7/27/14 10:23:59 PM] Jeanne: No, sorry, my Disqus account


[7/27/14 10:35:54 PM] Roy: Ummm. That looks like Holly, Gregory, and Cubadult


[7/27/14 10:35:59 PM] Jeanne: yup


[7/27/14 10:36:02 PM] Jeanne: that's what I was thinking


[7/27/14 10:36:11 PM] Jeanne: Now I am really wishing we had gone to Margot this weekend


[7/27/14 10:36:15 PM] Roy: Has Mike seen it?


[7/27/14 10:36:22 PM] Jeanne: Emailed them to Fitz but he won't see until the morning


[7/27/14 10:36:24 PM] Roy: We need some DNA, stat!

(Note:  "Gregory" was a nickname Ranger Roy was using for 435 Holly's spring cub ~ before we knew 719 was a female ~ think type of Backpack , when Ranger Roy learned that 719 was a female....well, Kelty would work!)


2014.07.28 15:44:  Ranger Roy's reply to CalliopeJane (aka Tina Crowe) in bearcam comments re: her photos of 435 Holly and 503 from Margot Creek and possible adoption: "While we are cautious by nature, a few of us believe you may have captured a shot of Holly, her spring cub, and 402’s “cubadult”. Keep in mind, that adoptions are extremely rare, and this may simply be that Holly is tolerant, not fully accepting of the older cub. We intend to take a trip to Margot and investigate, and we reserve the right to completely change our minds later. Congrats on a really cool series of shots, CalliopeJane!"

August 2014:[]

Add here

September 2014:[]

The following September 2014 NPS photos are available of 503 Cubadult from the Bears of Brooks River books:

2014.09.05:  435 Holly returned to the mouth of Brooks River with her spring cub (719) and yearling, 503 Cubadult.  

503 and 435 Holly nuzzle in this video by JoeBear.  435 Holly's spring cub approaches from the right.

435_Holly_and_adopted_yearling,_503_nuzzle_09_05_2014_video_by_JoeBear

435 Holly and adopted yearling, 503 nuzzle 09 05 2014 video by JoeBear

Ranger Mike goes live from the beach of Naknek Lake to discuss 435 Holly returning with both her spring cub and yearling, 503 Cubadult.  Cam viewer, Tronwolverine captured Ranger Mike's impromptu live chat on video :

435_Holly_returns_to_Brooks_River_with_her_biological_spring_cub_and_yearling,_503_Cubadult_Ranger_Mike_goes_live_from_the_beach_of_Naknek_Lake_09_05_2014_video_by_Tronwolverine

435 Holly returns to Brooks River with her biological spring cub and yearling, 503 Cubadult Ranger Mike goes live from the beach of Naknek Lake 09 05 2014 video by Tronwolverine

15:52:  Ranger Mike's 09/05/2014 15:52 comment re: 435 Holly's adoption of 503 Cubadult:

"If you're just tuning in, 435 Holly appears to have adopted 402's abandoned yearling.  Holly is now caring for a spring cub (which is hers) and a yearling (which is 402's).  Adoption has been documented in brown bears, but it is rare.  I've never had the chance to observe it myself so this is a novel situation for me to see -- and a facinating one at that.  I have not seen the yearling nurse, but I have seen it take fish from Holly and she didn't seem to care.  I wonder what other stories will unfold this summer?

Enjoy the weekend.  I'm off for the next couple of days, but I'll be back in chat soon."

Park visitor and cam viewer Tina Crowe (aka CalliopeJane) celebrates confirmation of the adoption in style:

Thank you Tina for sharing the first photos of this blended family group from your trip to Margot Creek in July 2014 with us!

BlueLily captured these snapshots (#1 , #2  & #3 ) of 435 Holly, her spring cub (719) and adopted yearling (503 Cubadult) on September 5, 2014:

2014.09.07:  Ranger Jeanne's photo of 435 Holly with her spring cub (now 719) and 435 Holly's adopted yearling, 503 Cubadult.

2014.09.10:  503 was observed nursing from 435 Holly with 435's biological spring cub (719).

15:20:  Ranger Mike's 09/10/2014 15:20 comment with photos of 435 Holly nursing both her biological spring cub and 503, her adopted yearling:

2014.09.11:  KNP&P Terrane blog by Ranger Mike Fitz:  Abandoned Cub Finds A New Mother 

2014.09.16:  435 Holly's spring cub (now 719) and adopted yearling, 503 Cubadult share a fish in this video by JoeBear:

435_Holly's_Adopted_Yearling_(503)_and_Spring_Cub_(719)_Share_a_Fish_September_16,_2014_video_by_JoeBear

435 Holly's Adopted Yearling (503) and Spring Cub (719) Share a Fish September 16, 2014 video by JoeBear

2014.09.17 15:30:  1.5 year-old adopted yearling nurses from 435 Holly in this video by MsDebbiB:

435_Holly_nursing_her_spring_cub_(719)_and_her_adopted_1.5_year-old_yearling_09_17_2014_15_30_by_MsDebbiB

435 Holly nursing her spring cub (719) and her adopted 1.5 year-old yearling 09 17 2014 15 30 by MsDebbiB

2014.09.18:  503's adoption by 435 Holly makes national news.  Good Morning America / ABC News interviews Ranger Mike Fitz, Visual Information Specialist for KNP&P about the adoption.  Watch the interview Maternal Brown Bear Adopts Abandoned Cub in Alaska Preserve.  

2014.09.19-.09.25: Park visitor Laszlo Molnar posted this video which is believed to be from 9/19-9/25/2014 based on a 2nd video that had those dates. 435 Holly can be seen with her spring cub 719 and adopted yearling Cubadult 503 at 0:36, 23:26-24:20 and 38:14-41:38.

Brooks_Falls,Alaska

Brooks Falls,Alaska

Video by Laszlo Molnar

2014.09.23:  National Public Radio interviews Ranger Roy Wood, Chief of Interpretation and Education at KNP&P about 435 Holly's adoption of 503, 402's abandoned yearling.  You can listen to the radio interview and read about it In Alaska, An Uncommon Act of Maternal Love .  (Click the white arrow inside the blue circle ~ play button ~ in the top left to hear the radio interview).

2014.09.25:  Cam viewer Juergen created these gifs of 435 Holly and her cubs from today:  #1,  #2  &  #3

2014.09.27: KNP&P video of 435 Holly's spring cub (now 719) playing with 435's adopted yearling (503).  Out in the river and on the shore, these two cubs battle in an extended play fight:

435_Holly's_spring_cub_(719)_and_adopted_yearling_(503)_play_fight,_Sept._27,_2014_video_by_KNP&P_~_video_has_sound

435 Holly's spring cub (719) and adopted yearling (503) play fight, Sept. 27, 2014 video by KNP&P ~ video has sound

Joe Bear's 9/27/2014 video of 435 Holly's cubs at play.

Holly's_cubs_at_play,_09_27_2014_video_by_Joe_Bear

Holly's cubs at play, 09 27 2014 video by Joe Bear

Ranger Jeanne's September 27, 2014 photo of 435 Holly's adopted yearling (503 Cubadult) on left with 435's Holly's spring cub (719).

2014.09.28: 

KNP&P video of 435 Holly nursing her spring cub (now 719) and her adopted yearling (503) on the spit:  You can hear 435's spring cub bawling in this video.

435_Holly_nurses_her_spring_cub_(now_719)_&_adopted_yearling_(now_503)_9-28-2014_video_by_KNP&P_~_You_can_hear_435's_spring_cub_bawling

435 Holly nurses her spring cub (now 719) & adopted yearling (now 503) 9-28-2014 video by KNP&P ~ You can hear 435's spring cub bawling

Ranger Jeanne's photos of 435 Holly nursing both her spring cub (719) and adopted yearling (503 Cubadult).  Photo #1 and Photo #2 .

October 2014:[]

The following October 2014 NPS photos of 503 Cubadult are available from the Bears of Brooks River books:

2014.10.03:  503 with adoptive mother 435 Holly and her biological spring cub video by DTB:

503_with_adoptive_mother,_435_Holly_and_her_biological_spring_cub_by_DTB

503 with adoptive mother, 435 Holly and her biological spring cub by DTB

2014.10.05: 

435 Holly's adopted yearling (503 Cubadult) left and spring cub (719) right, NPS photo :

503 Cubadult chases 500 Indy on Spit Road.  435 Holly's biological spring cub and 435 Holly follow behind in this video by KNP&P:  Ranger Mike was on the lower river platform when this interaction took place and shared the following thoughts with us on the bearcam comments the next day:

"I was on the platform and was lucky enough to witness the chase.  From what I was able to observe, it appears that Hollly's adopted yearling decided to assert itself over 500.  The yearling initiated the interaction several minutes prior when he approached 500.  This was more likely a playful approach from the yearling, but 500 wanted no part of it, perhaps because the yearling was being trailed by Holly.  When the interaction began, Holly was very close to the yearling.  500 didn't want to be close to the family.  When she ran, the yearling pursued and that's what the cam caught.  Holly was just trying to keep up with her cubs!

Subadult bears, like 500, hold the lowest position in the bear hierarchy.  They are easily displaced by other bears, as this interaction demonstrates.  If you are a cub, you often hold a higher position in the hierarchy than subadults because of your mother's close proximity.

Times have certainly changed for the adopted yearling.  Shortly after it was abandoned in July, he ran from everything.  Now, he looks confidenet, well fed, and able to test some boundaries.  For bear 500, she's going through a stage that all bears must endure to reach adulthood.  Holly's adopted yearling may be asserting itself now, but once it is driven away by Holly, it will experience everything that 500 is enduring now."

You can read more about the interaction in the 10/07/2014 KNP&P Terrane blog by Ranger Mike Fitz:  Chasing Bigger Bears .

435_Holly's_adopted_yearling_chases_subadult_bear_500_10_05_2014_video_by_KNP&P

435 Holly's adopted yearling chases subadult bear 500 10 05 2014 video by KNP&P

The title of this video by DTB says it all:  For Whatever Reason... These 3 Bears are Family.  Noteworthy is that 402, 503 Cubadult's biological mother, is the bear that can be seen diving in Naknek Lake in this video:

For_Whatever_Reason..._These_3_Bears_are_Family._Well_Done_Bears._Well_Done.

For Whatever Reason... These 3 Bears are Family. Well Done Bears. Well Done.

In the words of Ranger Mike Fitz, KNP&P Visual Information Specialist ...One nagging question keep revolving in many minds ~ why would 435 Holly adopt the yearling?  Some biologists hypothesize that alturism evolved in some animals is a result of shared genes.  If costs to your own fitness are not too great, it would make sense for you to care for your siblings and their offspring because you share genes with them, genes that will be passes on when they reporduce.  *However as of the time of the adoption in 2014, 402 and 435 Holly are not known to be related.  Bears also don't live in special groups like wolves or humans where social pressures often dictate behaviors.  Let's not forget about Holly's spring cub either.  It now faced extra competition from a bigger, stronger bear.  Could the adoption of a yearling into the family have reduced the spring cub's chances of survival?  Could that decrease Holly's genetic fitness?  Will an extra warm body in the den benefit her and her genetic cub during hibernation?

  • In 2016 both 402 and 435 Holly were successfully darted and 435 was successfully darted in 2017 for Ranger Michael Saxton's genetics study so we may find out if 402 and 435 are related. 

2014.10.06:  Yearling 503 Cubadult and spring cub 719 share a fish in this video by JoeBear:

Holly's_Cubs_Sharing_a_Fish_October_6,_2014_by_JoeBear

Holly's Cubs Sharing a Fish October 6, 2014 by JoeBear

2014.10.13:  435 Holly jumps to protect her cubs on the bank near the corner in this video by JoeBear:

435_Holly_Jumps_to_Protect_her_Cubs_10_13_2014_video_by_JoeBear

435 Holly Jumps to Protect her Cubs 10 13 2014 video by JoeBear

2014.10.18:  435 Holly with her spring cub 719 and adopted yearling 503 are seen interacting with 132 and her 3 spring cubs (805, 806 and 807) in this 10/18/2014 video by yesitsdonna. 

These_Families_Do_Not_Aways_Get_Along,_video_by_yesitsdonna

These Families Do Not Aways Get Along, video by yesitsdonna

Fall 2014:[]

Yearling 503 Cubadult and spring cub (719) NPS photo by Ranger Mike Fitz during fall 2014 from the November 12, 2014 Bearcam Update .:

2015:[]

503 Cubadult was included in the 2015 Bears of Brooks River book on page 23 :

2015 Season:[]

435 Holly with her yearling (719) and her adopted 2.5 year-old cub (503 Cubadult) video by Mocha.:

Holly_and_Bio_cub_503_Katmai_National_Park_2015_by_Mocha

Holly and Bio cub 503 Katmai National Park 2015 by Mocha

June 2015:[]

2015.06.02 14:54:  Ranger Mike comment:

"Rangers were surprised by the early season appearance of 435 Holly and her two cubs this afternoon.  Both cubs looked larger (and leaner) than last fall.  Like most bears at this time of the year, they are biding their time until the salmon return.  They were seen milling about near the mouth of Brooks River for about 15 minutes before they disappeard down the beach.  I've attached several photos of the family to this post...."

2015.06.03:  KNP&P Terrane blog by Ranger Mike Fitz:  435 Holly Returns with Her Adopted Cub :

"Each spring, I have questions floating around in my head.  As spring wanes and summer approaches I wonder, what stories will unfold along Brooks River this summer? Which bears will have cubs? Which bears will maintain dominance along the river? Which will survive and endure another year of hardships in the bear world? Which will become casualties?

One story from 2014 already added another chapter. Yesterday, 435 Holly and her two cubs made an early season appearance at the mouth of Brooks River. This family gained plenty of attention last summer when a then yearling cub was abandoned and subsequently adopted by 435 Holly .

I received many questions about this family. I was asked one question quite often—since the adopted cub is a year older than her biological cub, will she drive it away in the spring? Last summer, I was not able that question with 100% certainty. Adoption in bears has been documented before, but most of these records simply note that an adoption occurred. Researchers didn’t elaborate on the behavior of the adopted cub within the litter or with its new mother. It has never been observed along Brooks River.

Mother bears hibernate in the same den with their cubs, so we can assume that 435 did the same. In Katmai, bears keep their cubs for two to three summers, hibernate with them one more time, and then drive them away in the following spring. Presumably, 435 is treating the adopted cub (which is now two and half years old) like her biological cub. If 435 has not pushed both cubs away by June, she’s probably committed to keeping them until next spring. It seems that we will have more time to observe the story of this family unfold as spring and summer continue."

2015.06.14 - 2015.06.18:  Brooks Lodge Facebook post with photo by Tisa Hunnewell of 435 Holly and both cubs taken this week (between 06/14/2015 - 06/18/2015)

2015.06.24:  435 Holly and both cubs run by the ranger's cabins:  KNP&P gif   & Brooks Camp tweet

2015.06.25:  Brooks Camp tweet 435 Holly and both cubs are live on the lower river cam.

2015.06.27:  

2015.06.28:

503 Cubadult playing with adopted sibling, 435 Holly's yearling video by Nancy Clark:

503_Cubadult_playing_with_adopted_sibling,_435_Holly's_yearling_on_the_spit_video_by_Nancy_Clark

503 Cubadult playing with adopted sibling, 435 Holly's yearling on the spit video by Nancy Clark

435 Holly and 503 Cubadult captured on underwater cam video by JoeBear:

435_Holly_and_503_Cubadult_on_underwater_cam_06_28_2015_video_by_JoeBear

435 Holly and 503 Cubadult on underwater cam 06 28 2015 video by JoeBear

July 2015:[]

The following July 2015 NPS photo of 503 Cubadult is available from the 2016 Bears of Brooks River book, however it appears the photo was actually taken on June 27, 2015 (see that date above and photo from 2015 Fat Bear Week contest);

2015.07.??: Brooks Camp visitor Theresa Bielawski captured photos of 435 Holly's yearling cub (now 719) and 503 Cubadult, her adopted 2.5 year old cub playing. Theresa shared these photos on 1/10/2021. Theresa commented "Here are 503 & 719 in late July 2015." Photos #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6 and #7.

Please request Theresa Bielawski's permission prior to using her photographs!

2015.07.04:  503 Cubadult with 435 Holly and her yearling video by Martina:

503_Cubadult_with_435_Holly_and_her_yearling_07_04_2015_video_by_Martina

503 Cubadult with 435 Holly and her yearling 07 04 2015 video by Martina

2015.07.12:

503 Cubadult ascends the fish ladder wall to the lip to beg fish from 128 Grazer(?) in this video by Martina.  435 Holly is the bear standing on her hind legs below the falls close to the beginning of the video:

2.5_year-old_cub_503_begging_fish_from_128_Grazer_with_adoptive_mom_435_Holly_nearby_07_12_2015_video_by_Martina

2.5 year-old cub 503 begging fish from 128 Grazer with adoptive mom 435 Holly nearby 07 12 2015 video by Martina

503 with 435 Holly and adopted sibling, yearling 719 attempt to fish at Brooks Falls.  First 289 prevents 435 from focusing on fishing then the approach of 747 to the jacuzzi displaces the 435 family group from 435's intended fishing spot below the falls.  Video by Martina:

503_with_435_Holly_and_adoptive_sibling,_719_attempt_to_fish_at_the_falls_07_12_2015_video_by_Martina

503 with 435 Holly and adoptive sibling, 719 attempt to fish at the falls 07 12 2015 video by Martina

2015.07.24:

435 Holly protects her two cubs from a 856, the most dominant boar, at Brooks Falls video by Martina:

435_Holly_protects_her_cubs_from_a_large_boar_at_Brooks_Falls_07_24_2015_video_by_Martina

435 Holly protects her cubs from a large boar at Brooks Falls 07 24 2015 video by Martina

Mike Fitz has a photo of this interaction on his flickr:  435 Holly stands up to 856 by Mike Fitz

and then she does it again...this time a different bear is the focus of her charge video by Martina:

435_Holly_charges_another_bear_at_Brooks_Falls_in_protection_of_her_cubs_07_24_2015_video_by_Martina

435 Holly charges another bear at Brooks Falls in protection of her cubs 07 24 2015 video by Martina

2015.07.27: Anna-Marie_AZ 7/27/2015 photos of #1 503 and #2 left to right, 719 435 Holly and 503.

August 2015:[]

Add here

September 2015:[]

2015.09.07:  Ranger Mike observed the 435 family group and captured this photo of 503 Cubadult .

2015.09.08 or Prior:  Ranger Mike's 09/08/2015 comment with recent photos of 503 and 435 Holly:

2015.09.09:  madmadmad photographed 435 Holly with her yearling and adopted 2.5 year old on 9/9/2015. The family can be seen in this album of 16 photos titled "Holly and Cubs."

2015.09.15:  8 year old 151 Walker can be seen playing on the lower river with 503, a 2.5 year old on 9/13/2015, video  by Victoria White. Note: 503 was still an adopted dependent cub of 435 Holly. 435 Holly and her yearling, now known as 719, can be observed swimming over towards 151 and 503 at 2:08 and are very tolerant of the situation.

503_&_unknown_bear_playing_2015_09_13,_video_by_Victoria_White-0

503 & unknown bear playing 2015 09 13, video by Victoria White-0

2015.09.17:  Ranger Mike observed the 435 famiily group and captured these photos of 503 Cubadult with 435 Holly:  photo 1 , photo 2 , & photo 3 .

2015.09.20:  8 year old 151 Walker plays with 2.5 year old 503 in this 9/20/2015 video by Victoria White. Note that 503 was still a dependent, adopted cub of 435 Holly at the time.

503_and_unknown_bear_playing_2015_09_20,_video_by_Victoria_White-0

503 and unknown bear playing 2015 09 20, video by Victoria White-0

October 2015:[]

The following October 2015 NPS photo of 503 Cubadult is available from the 2016 Bears of Brooks River book:

2015.10.01:  

2015.10.17:  435 Holly, with her biological female yearling (now 719), and her adopted 2.5 year-old male cub; and 273 with her spring cub (now 809video by Mickey Williams:

Part_Two_Close_Encounters_of_the_Bear_Kind_Katmai_NP_10_17_15_by_Mickey_Williams-0

Part Two Close Encounters of the Bear Kind Katmai NP 10 17 15 by Mickey Williams-0

273 and her spring cub meet 435 Holly and her adopted 2.5 year-old cub (503 Cubadult) and her biological yearling (719) in this video by JoeBear:

273_&_Velcro_meet_Holly_&_Family_October_17,_2015_by_JoeBear-1

273 & Velcro meet Holly & Family October 17, 2015 by JoeBear-1

2015.10.18:  503 Cubadult and 435 Holly's yearling (719) fishing video by Mickey Williams.:

503_and_435's_yearling_fishing_10_18_15_Katmai_National_Park_by_Mickey_Williams

503 and 435's yearling fishing 10 18 15 Katmai National Park by Mickey Williams

879, 435 Holly and her two cubs (503 Cubadult and 719) video by Mickey Williams.:

879,_503,_435_&_yearling_fishing_10_18_15_Katmai_National_Park_by_Mickey_Williams-0

879, 503, 435 & yearling fishing 10 18 15 Katmai National Park by Mickey Williams-0

2016:[]

503 Cubadult was included in the 2016 Bears of Brooks River book on page 27 :

503 Cubadult was successfully darted in 2016 by Ranger Michael Saxton for the Genetics Study.  

May 2016:[]

2016.05.21:  L♥♥k who showed up today!

At 20:55 Ranger Dave pops into the bearcam comments (the Explore bearcams are not live yet for the season) to let us know that 3.5 year-old 503 Cubadult has returned to the Brooks River with 435 Holly and her biological 2.5 year-old cub.  Ranger Dave also shares a photo by Ranger Anela .  At 20:58 Ranger Dave shares a photo of 503 Cubadult by Ranger Anela :

Ranger Tammy Carmack, KNP&P Bear Technician talks about the return of 435 Holly's blended family group in this KNP&P video posted on the KNP&P facebook page on 05/23/2017.  435 Holly and the cubs can be seen in the video on the day they returned to Brooks Camp (05/21/2016).

2016.05.23:  Mike Fitz, former KNP&P Ranger and Visual Information Specialist shares his thoughts about 435 Holly and both cubs returning to the river together in his Explore blog:  Another Summer with Holly and Her Cubs :

"Last week, Brooks River’s most famous bear family—435 Holly, her biological (now 2.5 year-old) female cub, and her adopted (now 3.5 year-old) male cub—were seen for a brief time at Brooks River. Last fall, the future of this family was a target for much speculation. Would 435 keep her cubs for another year? Or, is it time for them to go their separate ways? It may be too early to answer those questions definitively.

Katmai’s mother bears usually keep their cubs for two to three summers before separating from them. The cubs’ emancipation happens in spring after the bears emerge from their dens and is not voluntary. Hormonal changes, likely related to the return of the mother bear’s estrus cycle, cause her to become increasingly intolerant of her offspring. While I’ve never seen this separation occur, it’s been described as somewhat sudden and aggressive. The cubs may not know what’s coming. “It must be a traumatic experience for the juvenile bears to be evicted by a mother who has fed and protected them all their lives,” mused Will Troyer, one of the first biologists to study Katmai’s bears. This is an event every bear must endure as it matures.

But, late May is here and Holly still has her cubs. Does this mean the cubs will be spared from separation until next spring? Some evidence suggests they still may go their separate ways.

In early May 2008, 408 CC returned to Brooks River with her three 3.5 year-old offspring. We watched them play near Brooks Lodge before they disappeared into the forest. When 408 came back that July, she was single. She drove away her cubs sometime between those two events.

Bears at Brooks River usually don’t vary in the amount of time they keep their offspring. If they wean them at 2.5 years, for example, then they are likely to wean subsequent litters at that age as well. 435 Holly weaned her only known surviving offspring, 89 Backpack, when he was a 2.5 year-old.

We know that bears separate from their offspring at this time of the year, and Holly’s biological cub from her current litter is 2.5 years old, the same age as 89 Backpack when he was weaned. However, it would be a mistake to use these anecdotes as absolute predictors for this bear family in 2016. So much of this family’s history is atypical.

The stress of separation might be great for newly weaned cubs, but a mother doesn’t do it out of malice. Nor does she “choose” to keep her cubs to be nice. The mother’s biology will dictate the family’s separation or continued unity."

2016.05.XX:  Add here


June 2016:[]

2016.06.04 (Saturday):  503 Cubadult is observed as an independent subadult per Ranger Daniel's 06/05/2016 14:18 comment:

"Saturday (06/004/2016) afternoon, what appears to be 503, was seen walking around the lower Brooks River, seemingly alone.

It appears that 503 may now be on its own. Did its mother 435 chase it off? Did 503 decide to leave on its own? Or maybe it was forced to leave if 435 was courted by a larger male? And what about 435's biological cub? Has it been chased of as well? These are the questions swirling around Brooks Camp today (06/05/2014).

We don't have any solid answers yet and might not ever. What we do know is that while the weaning process is probably stressful for the cub, the mother doesn’t make a conscious choice to keep or drive off her offspring. The biological processes of estrous dictates the events."

Unfortunately, Ranger Daniel deleted his Explore / Disqus account, so links to his comments and photos posted, while available will not take you to those comments / photos.  Snips are provided below:

503’s life history is interesting and unique because of his early life circumstances- being abandoned in 2014 and adopted by another sow in the same year. Thanks to the Explore live cams, the interactions we receive from the NPS rangers, and park visitors like Tina Crowe (aka CalliopeJane) we have been able to witness his life story from his spring cub season on. His story demonstrates the challenges young bears face, but his story also shows us that sometimes bears can catch a break. 503’s break just so happened to be a toasted-marshmallow-colored sow identified as 435 Holly. 435 already had a spring cub and she was tolerant enough to accept 503 and raise him through those early years when cubs are unlikely to survive on their own. In 2016, 503 and his adopted sister 719 were emancipated by 435, both subadults have been seen along Brooks River and thriving. Stay tuned this now independent bear has more to teach us as we follow his story forward from here...many believe we may be watching the future king of Brooks River as he makes his way to being the most dominant boar that utilizes the river. 

2016.06.06 08:11:  Mike Fitz, former KNP&P Ranger and Visual Information Specialist pops into the bearcam comments to share his thoughts:

2016.06.07:  Mike Fitz shares more thoughts about 503 Cubadult being observed alone in this Explore blog post:

The Teenagers of the Bear World

"Recently I speculated that 435 Holly and her two cubs might go their separate ways. Since then, park rangers spotted Holly’s adopted cub, 503 Cubadult, wandering alone near the mouth of Brooks River. Neither 435 nor her biological cub were seen nearby. It appears that the Cubadult has become a subadult. He’s now begun a challenging journey that will test his instincts and survival skills.

Subadult bears are those who are independent of their mother, but have not yet fully matured physically or (as I suspect) mentally. They are the teenagers of the bear world. Katmai’s bears typically enter subadulthood in their third or fourth summer. While subadults are typically curious and more playful than adults, they also must establish their own home range and face stiff competition from adult bears. If they encounter their mother, not even she will cut her offspring any slack. (A few years ago, I watched 435 Holly charge 89 Backpack, her cub from a 2006 litter.)

It’s not easy to be a teenager nor is it easy to be a subadult. Subadult bears, like 503, rank lowest in the bear hierarchy. 503 only ranks higher than smaller subadults. At Brooks River, he may wander to the falls, but will not gain the same access to salmon as he did with his mother. Without mom to shadow and protect him, he’s much more vulnerable to attacks from other bears. Accordingly, most subadult bears avoid Brooks Falls. If they do approach, they often do so skittishly, hovering on the river bank or downstream and scavenging partially eaten salmon carcasses.

Subadult males are more likely to disperse away from their mother’s home range than subadult females. While several adult male bears at Brooks River fished there as cubs (i.e. 83, 89, 151, 274, 868), 503 might wander far from Brooks River. On that journey, if he finds enough food and space to survive, it’s certainly possible that we may never see him again.

503’s multi-year subadult journey could be risky and dangerous, but if his instincts and survival skills are up to the task, it may lead to a long life. Perhaps 503 will return to Brooks River and we’ll be witness to the next part of his journey on bearcam. Perhaps not, leaving us to only wonder about his fate."

July 2016:[]

The following July 2016 NPS photos are available of 503 Cubadult:

2016.07.16 - 2016.07.21:  Truman Everts captured this photograph of 503 Cubadult (p 08/30/16 12:04).:

2016.07.17:  Park visitor and cam viewer Scott H Melnick captured this photo of 503 Cubadult (right) and 719 (left).  Park visitor and cam viewer Kenneth Kearney captured this photo of 503 Cubadult (left) and 719 (right).

Mazey discovered this video by Brokk Mowrey that was not published on youTube until April 10, 2019, however it appears to be from the same day and time as Scott and Kenneth's photos that are linked above.:

Bears_Playing_July_17,_2016_(?)_by_Brokk_Mowrey

Bears Playing July 17, 2016 (?) by Brokk Mowrey

Scott H. Melnick also captured other photos of 503 Cubadult and 719 on July 17, 2016:  Photo links:  #1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 , #6 , #7 , #8 , #9 , #10 , #11 , #12 , #13 , #14 , #15 , #16 , #17 , #18 . #19 . #20 , #21 , #22 , #23 , #24 , #25 , #26 , #27 , #28 , #29 , #30 , #31 , #32 , #33 , #34 , #35 , #36 & #37 .

Scott H Melnick captured these photos (#1 , #2 & #3 ) of 503 Cubadult on July 17, 2016.

Kenneth Kearney also captured other photos of 503 Cubadult and 719 on July 17, 2016:  Photo links:  #1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 , #6 , #7 , #8 . #9 , #10 , #11 , #12 , #13 , #14 , #15 , #16 , #17 , #18 , #19 , #20 , #21 , #22 , #23 & #24 .

Kenneth Kearney captured this photo of 503 Cubadult taking notice of his biological mother, 402 and her two yearlings.


2016.07.18:  503 Cubadult and 719 on under water cam, video by angerbodha:

503_and_719_underwater_cam_07_18_2016_video_by_angerbodha

503 and 719 underwater cam 07 18 2016 video by angerbodha

2016.07.21:  503 successfully fishing at the falls in this video by LuvBears:

503_fishing_at_the_falls_07_21_2016_video_by_LuvBears

503 fishing at the falls 07 21 2016 video by LuvBears

2016.07.23:  Recently emancipated 503 Cubadult crosses paths with his adopted mother, 435 Holly in this video by Melissa Freels. 

Cam viewer, Goldilocks describes the interaction :  "503 and 435 Holly approaching each other, from opposite directions, on the spit. 435 Holly passes without any change in her pace or direction. 503 stops, and appears to recognize her. He changes direction and starts to run after her. He thinks better of it...stops...and after a moment, turns and proceeds to continue in the direction he was originally heading in.....straight into his successful, independent future."

503_Sees_435_Holly,_July_23,_2016_"Hey_Mom,_it's_me!"_by_Melissa_Freels

503 Sees 435 Holly, July 23, 2016 "Hey Mom, it's me!" by Melissa Freels

2018.07.28:  503 Cubadult & 719 come from the riffles to the falls in this video by Erum Chad:

719_&_503_together_at_falls_2016-07-28_by_Erum_Chad

719 & 503 together at falls 2016-07-28 by Erum Chad

August 2016:[]

2016.08.24:  This video by JoniT shows 503 fishing near the office while 435 Holly, his adoptive mother that emancipated him earlier this season fishes in the far pool.  503 is having a time navigating the rushing water whereas 435 Holly with her "stout form" has no problem maintaining her spot.:

Current_Strong_for_Bear_503_fishing_near_the_office_as_435_Holly_fishes_in_the_far_pool_8.24.16_video_by_JoniT

Current Strong for Bear 503 fishing near the office as 435 Holly fishes in the far pool 8.24.16 video by JoniT

503 Cubadult tries to get 435 Holly's attention in the video by 

503_try_to_get_435_Holly's_attention_August_24,_2016_by_Pleiadians_Bear

503 try to get 435 Holly's attention August 24, 2016 by Pleiadians Bear


2016.08.26:  

503 gets a salmon video by Rob Rager (aka RobNJ):

503_Gets_A_Salmon_08_26_2016_video_by_Rob_Rager_(aka_RobNJ)

503 Gets A Salmon 08 26 2016 video by Rob Rager (aka RobNJ)

503 climbs to top of falls to watch the adult boars fish where cam op gets some great close-up footage of him video by Melissa Freels:

503_Watches_the_Big_Guys,_August_26,_2016_video_by_Melissa_Freels

503 Watches the Big Guys, August 26, 2016 video by Melissa Freels

September 2016:[]

The following September 2016 NPS photos are available of 503 Cubadult:

2016.09.02:  503 Cubadult on under water cam, video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.

09.02.2016_-_503_Cubadult_on_Underwater_Cam_video_by_Brenda_D

09.02.2016 - 503 Cubadult on Underwater Cam video by Brenda D


2016.09.14: Lisa Robertson (aka Larinor) shared a 9/14/2016 photo of 151 Walker (left) and 503 (right) on 5/14/2023. "503 and 151 Walker. I miss the bromance and entertaining play sessions between these two!"

Please request Lisa Robertson's (aka Larinor) permission prior to using her photographs!

2016.09.28:   503 and 289 play on the spit, 9/28/2016 video by Victoria White.

503_&_289_playing_2016_09_28,_video_by_Victoria_White-0

503 & 289 playing 2016 09 28, video by Victoria White-0


October 2016: []

2016.10.04:  GreenRiver shared these snapshots of 94 with her male yearling (810) and newly emancipated 503 Cubadult in the background (#3 & #4 ) (p 02/16/2020 07:10 ).:

2017:[]

503 Cubadult was included in the 2017 Bears of Brooks River book on page 31 :

2017 Season:[]

2017.??.??:  GreenRiver created this video of 503 observations from during the 2017 season.  On June 2, 2019, 503 Cubadult day, GreenRiver shared these thoughts :

"When I look back at this slide show now, he looks small compared to the way he looked last year. 
I heard this song and immediately thought of 503, a giving, sharing, unique bear!

A quote from the song: “A dream was born into the night”

Brown_Bear_503_in_2017,_Brooks_River,_Katmai_National_Park,_Alaska_by_GreenRiver

Brown Bear 503 in 2017, Brooks River, Katmai National Park, Alaska by GreenRiver

GreenRiver created this 2017 video "The Prince of Katmai Grows Up, Brooks River Brown Bear No. 503." GreenRiver stated "Here’s a slideshow video of 503 that was from the end of 2017 but I didn’t create it until April of the next year.  
“The Prince of Katmai grows up”.

The_Prince_of_Katmai_Grows_Up,_Brooks_River_Brown_Bear_No._503,_video_by_GreenRiver

The Prince of Katmai Grows Up, Brooks River Brown Bear No. 503, video by GreenRiver

2017.??.??:  Cruiser created these collages of 503 observations during the 2017 season:  503 Cubadult & 719 and 503 Cubadult & 151 WalkerKeli shared these 2017 season snapshots (#1 & #2 ) of 503 Cubadult. 

Truman Everts shared this 2017 photo of 503 Cubadult on 5/31/2020.  "Can't find (on a lazy Sunday, anyway) date...2017? Young 503 wonders if every living being is a potential play partner..."

Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!

2017.??.??:  Park visitor Saurabh Shankar captured this video of 503 Cubadult playing with 806 (or 812?) during the 2017 season (published September 10, 2017):

Playful_bears_at_Brooks_Falls_by_Saurabh_Shankar_(2017_Season_~_published_September_10,_2017)

Playful bears at Brooks Falls by Saurabh Shankar (2017 Season ~ published September 10, 2017)

June 2017:[]

2017.06.23:  503 Cubadult returns to the Brooks River.  

Erum Chad (aka Erie) captures this video of 503 at Brooks Falls:

503_Cubadult_at_Brooks_Falls_Katmai_Alaska_06_23_2017_video_by_Erum_Chad_(aka_Erie)

503 Cubadult at Brooks Falls Katmai Alaska 06 23 2017 video by Erum Chad (aka Erie)

2017.06.26:  Truman Everts shared this 6/26/2017 photo of 503 Cubadult on 5/31/2020. "At least 2 Caroline paintings that I'm aware of, came from this quiet 503 moment on the lower river, in June, '17..." Truman Everts shared 2 additional photos of 503 Cubadult from that charming "melancholy series" on 5/31/2020, #1 and #2. The 2nd photo is " a pulled back shot, that shows that the entirety of Brooks River was actually between 503 & I at that time...
(though he was aware, and unconcerned, I was there."

Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!

2017.06.30:  503 Cubadult from gravel bar to spit video by Ratna:

503_from_gravel_bar_to_spit_06_30_2017_video_by_Ratna

503 from gravel bar to spit 06 30 2017 video by Ratna

July 2017:[]

Melissa Freels shared these two July 2017 photos (#1 & #2 ) of 503 Cubadult created with GoArt.:

Please request Melissa's permission prior to using her photos!  

503 Cubadult is listed as observed on the unofficial July 2017 Bears Observed During Official Bear Monitoring Sessions List .

2017.07.??:  503 Cubadult video by Mocha.:

Bear_503_Katmai_July_2017_by_Mocha

Bear 503 Katmai July 2017 by Mocha

2017.07.01:  503 Cubadult is observed on the underwater cam, video by Erum Chad (aka Erie):

Bear_503_caught_Under_water_cam_Brooks_Falls_Katmai_07_01_2017_video_by_Erum_Chad_(aka_Erie)

Bear 503 caught Under water cam Brooks Falls Katmai 07 01 2017 video by Erum Chad (aka Erie)

2017.07.03:  503 Cubadult and 719 (maybe) in lower river, video by birdnerd57:

503_Cubadult_with_719_(maybe)_07_03_2017_video_by_birdnerd57

503 Cubadult with 719 (maybe) 07 03 2017 video by birdnerd57

2017.07.05:  503 Cubadult and 719 playing together on the Lower River cam video by Arlene Beech.:

503_and_719_playing_together_on_Lower_River_cam._21.20_05_July_2017_by_Arlene_Beech

503 and 719 playing together on Lower River cam. 21.20 05 July 2017 by Arlene Beech

2017.07.07:  At approximately 19:00 AKDT Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA) captured this video of subadult 503 Cubadult with 2 other subadults playing along the lower Brooks River.:  

503_and_2_Subadults_along_the_Lower_River_July_7,_2017_approximately_19_00_AKDT_by_Flyer_7474_(aka_SteveCA)

503 and 2 Subadults along the Lower River July 7, 2017 approximately 19 00 AKDT by Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA)

2017.07.09:  274 Overflow and 503 Cubadult video by Melissa Freels.:

503_and_274_Overflow_Bromance,_July_9,_2017_by_Melissa_Freels

503 and 274 Overflow Bromance, July 9, 2017 by Melissa Freels

2017.07.13:  

2017.07.21: 503 and 719 are together on the lower river. And come across 811 and 812 (811 & 812's first year of emancipation). 503 goes over to greet 812.......811 strongly objects. Babsgrabs captured this video:

Subadult_scuffle_2017_07_21_18_33_57

Subadult scuffle 2017 07 21 18 33 57


2017.07.22:  ElaineDE shared this 7/22/2017 photo of 719 (left) and 503 Cubadult (right) in the oxbow on 5/31/2020. 503 is seen doing his "back float."

Please request ElaineDE's permission prior to using her photographs!

2017.07.30:

503 Cubadult is startled by 775 Lefty at approximately 11:12 AM video by flyer7474 (aka SteveCA):

503_Gets_Surprised_by_775_Lefty_07_30_2017_video_by_flyer7474_(aka_SteveCA)

503 Gets Surprised by 775 Lefty 07 30 2017 video by flyer7474 (aka SteveCA)

503 Cubadult in the jacuzzi, video by Stmango:

503_Cubadult_in_the_jacuzzi_07_30_2017_video_by_Stmango

503 Cubadult in the jacuzzi 07 30 2017 video by Stmango

August 2017:[]

2017.08.01:  At approximately 18:01 AKDT, Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA) captured this video of 128 Grazer grazering 503 Cubadult.:

Bear_128_Grazer_and_Victim_503_on_August_1,_2017_approximately_18_01,_Video_by_Flyer_7474_(aka_SteveCA)-1

Bear 128 Grazer and Victim 503 on August 1, 2017 approximately 18 01, Video by Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA)-1

2017.08.05:  Martina's video when 503 is fishing in the J and along comes 402. He is a little discombobulated.:

2017-08-05_503_&_402_by_Martina

2017-08-05 503 & 402 by Martina


2017.08.08:

Melissa Freels (aka MelissaInOR) captures 503 and his adventures with the t-shirt in these two videos: 

Part 1 from Brooks Falls live cam:

503_and_the_T-shirt,_August_8,_2017_Part_1_by_Melissa_Freels_(aka_MelissaInOR)

503 and the T-shirt, August 8, 2017 Part 1 by Melissa Freels (aka MelissaInOR)

Part 2 as the adventure continues from the Riffles live cam:

503_and_the_T-shirt,_Part_2,_August_8,_2017_by_Melissa_Freels_(aka_MelissaInOR)

503 and the T-shirt, Part 2, August 8, 2017 by Melissa Freels (aka MelissaInOR)

Explore posted video of 503 and the t-shirt on 8/10/17.

Bear_503_Finds_T-Shirt_-_Brooks_Falls_-_Live_Cam_Highlight

Bear 503 Finds T-Shirt - Brooks Falls - Live Cam Highlight

503 catches a fish in the far pool and takes the fish above the falls to eat it.  Brenda D captures this close-up view of 503 in her video. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.

503_close_up_above_the_falls_08_08_2017_by_Brenda_D

503 close up above the falls 08 08 2017 by Brenda D

2017.08.11:  503 walks past 151 Walker and 755 ScareD Bear to the island where he gets scared by 32 Chunk, 8/11/2017 video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.

08.11.2017_-_503,_151_Walker,_755_Scare_D_Bear,_32_Chunk,_video_by_Brenda_D

08.11.2017 - 503, 151 Walker, 755 Scare D Bear, 32 Chunk, video by Brenda D

2017.08.12:  503 treis to convince 755 Scare D Bear, an adult male that play time can be fun in this video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.

503_and_755_Scare_D_Bear_Play_Fighting_Above_the_Falls_08_12_2017_video_by_Brenda_D

503 and 755 Scare D Bear Play Fighting Above the Falls 08 12 2017 video by Brenda D

2017.08.14:  Just this morning, 719 was thinking and reminiscing about growing up with 503 Cubadult.  DTB captures those memories from 06/29/2015 until this morning in this amazing video:  The Way We Are :

The_Way_We_Are_with_719,_503_Cubadult,_435_Holly_and_other_Brooks_River_bears_06_29_2015_-_08_14_2017_video_by_DTB-0

The Way We Are with 719, 503 Cubadult, 435 Holly and other Brooks River bears 06 29 2015 - 08 14 2017 video by DTB-0

2017.08.14-08.18: Cam viewer and Brooks Camp visitor Leila shared an 8/14-8/18/2017 photo of 719 with 503 on 1/29/2023. "Here's one of my favorite moments of August, 2017: 719 playing with big bro 503."

Please request Leala's permission prior to using their photographs!

2017.08.15:  503 Cubadult with 719 video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.

503_and_719_on_the_Bank_Under_the_Viewing_Platform_08_15_2017_video_by_Brenda_D

503 and 719 on the Bank Under the Viewing Platform 08 15 2017 video by Brenda D

2017.08.20:  503 Cubadult in the jacuzzi getting his water aerobics in, video by Melissa Freels (aka MelissaInOR):

503,_Full_of_Fish_and_Silliness,_August_20,_2017_video_by_Melissa_Freels_(aka_MelissaInOR)

503, Full of Fish and Silliness, August 20, 2017 video by Melissa Freels (aka MelissaInOR)

Brenda D captured this video ...6 minutes of 503's water aerobics. Mostly in the J.....he moves over, downriver of the office, and tries out some of his routine there.  At one point it looks like Walker is sitting over there by his rock... Judging! Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.

08.20.2017_-_503's_Synchronized_Swimming_Lessons_by_Brenda_D

08.20.2017 - 503's Synchronized Swimming Lessons by Brenda D

2017.08.24:  503 Cubadult antics in the jacuzzi video by Rockatte:

503_Antics_in_the_J,_August_24,_2017_video_by_Rockatte

503 Antics in the J, August 24, 2017 video by Rockatte

At approximately 15:58 AKDT Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA) captured this video 503-719 "Dinner for Two".  719 and 503 Cubadult have dinner at the rock above the Falls. But it didn't start at well. :

503-719_"Dinner_for_Two"_2017_08_24_by_Flyer_7474_(aka_SteveCA)

503-719 "Dinner for Two" 2017 08 24 by Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA)

2017.08.27:  503 plays with 806 in the far pool while 719 fishes, 8/27/2017 video by Birgitt.

503_Plays_with_806_While_719_Fishes_2017-08-27_23-41-45-646,_video_by_Birgitt

503 Plays with 806 While 719 Fishes 2017-08-27 23-41-45-646, video by Birgitt

2017.08.29:  503 Cubadult and Little Lip Fisher (804 ? or 806 ?) in Ratna's The BEAR hug video :

The_BEAR_Hug!_8_29_2017_Little_Lip_Fisher_&_503_Cubadult_video_by_Ratna-0

The BEAR Hug! 8 29 2017 Little Lip Fisher & 503 Cubadult video by Ratna-0

September 2017:[]

503 Cubadult in September 2017 from Mike Fitz' June 11, 2018 Explore.org blog:  2018 Bearcam Stories: 503 

2017.09.??: Leslie Zane (aka lesleezee) captured 151 Walker (right) and 503 (left) play fighting in this video titled "151 headlocks 503, September 2017."

151_headlocks_503,_September_2017

151 headlocks 503, September 2017

Video by Leslie Zane (aka lesleezee)


2017.09.02:  503 Cubadult comes to the rescue when 708 and her 2.5 year-old cubs gang up on 719 video by Ratna Narayan.:

503_to_the_rescue._the_sweetest_video._708_and_cubs_gang_up_on_719_9_2_2017_by_Ratna-0

503 to the rescue. the sweetest video. 708 and cubs gang up on 719 9 2 2017 by Ratna-0


2017.09.04:  509 Cubadult, 719, and 804 (aka Little Lip Fisher) video by Birgitt:

3_Musketeers,_503,_719_&_LLF,_Above_the_Falls_2017-09-04_by_Birgitt

3 Musketeers, 503, 719 & LLF, Above the Falls 2017-09-04 by Birgitt

Aneel Nazareth's 9/4/2017 photo of 806 (right) and 503 (left) playing on the lip.

2017.09.05:  503 Cubadult tolerates 719 taking part of his salmon, video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.

503_Cubadult_tolerates_719_taking_part_of_his_salmon_09_05_2017_video_by_Brenda_D-0

503 Cubadult tolerates 719 taking part of his salmon 09 05 2017 video by Brenda D-0

410 lacks the desire to play with 503 Cubadult video by Patricia65.  Even 503s legendary charm could not win over 410.:

2017_09_05_410_doesn't_want_to_play_with_subadult_503_by_Patricia65-1

2017 09 05 410 doesn't want to play with subadult 503 by Patricia65-1

2017.09.06: Cruiser's 9/6/2017 snapshot collage of 151 Walker and 503 play fighting. "When they were still buddies."

151 Walker and 503 play fight September 6, 2017 snapshot collage by Cruiser

151 Walker and 503 play fight September 6, 2017 snapshot collage by Cruiser

Ratna Narayan captured video of a "Bromance" between 503 and 151 Walker on 9/6/2017.

503_-_151_Bromance_above_the_falls_P2_9_6_2017,_video_by_Ratna_Narayan

503 - 151 Bromance above the falls P2 9 6 2017, video by Ratna Narayan

Video by Ratna Narayan


2017.09.09:  

503 Cubadult has words with 151 Walker and 480 Otis video by Ratna:

503_Cubadult_has_words_with_151_Walker_and_480_Otis_September_9,_2017_by_Ratna

503 Cubadult has words with 151 Walker and 480 Otis September 9, 2017 by Ratna

2017.09.26:  503 Cubadult video by Ratna.:

402_mini_sub_and_503_lip_fishing_9_26_2017_by_Ratna

402 mini sub and 503 lip fishing 9 26 2017 by Ratna

83 Wayne Brother tries to displace 503 Cubadult from the jacuzzi, 480 Otis provides back-up to 503 video by Rockatte.:

503_tells_83_to_SUCK_IT;_480_provides_back-up_-_Sept._26,_2017_by_Rockatte-1

503 tells 83 to SUCK IT; 480 provides back-up - Sept. 26, 2017 by Rockatte-1

806 is fishing the lip with 503 in the jacuzzi below. 402 (503's speculated Mom) wants to dive for fish but 503 is in her way, a minor squabble ensues, video by 12gizmo16.

503_&_Bio-Mom_402_~_9.26.17_Brooks_Falls,_Katmai_NPP,_AK,_video_by_12gizmo16

503 & Bio-Mom 402 ~ 9.26.17 Brooks Falls, Katmai NPP, AK, video by 12gizmo16

2017.09.28:  

17:38:  503 Cubadult slips and slides off the falls video by Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA):

503_Slips_and_Slides_Off_the_Falls_2017_09_28_17_38_video_by_Flyer_7474_(aka_SteveCA)

503 Slips and Slides Off the Falls 2017 09 28 17 38 video by Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA)

October 2017:[]

2017.10.01:

503 Cubadult and 151 Walker play near jacuzz, 274 Overflow near islandi, video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.

503_and_151_Walker_Playing_in_the_Jacuzzi_10_01_2017_video_by_Brenda_D

503 and 151 Walker Playing in the Jacuzzi 10 01 2017 video by Brenda D

503 Cubadult video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.

503_by_the_Bank,_then_to_the_Jacuzzi,_Waiting_for_32_Chunk_to_Return_10_01_2017_video_by_Brenda_D

503 by the Bank, then to the Jacuzzi, Waiting for 32 Chunk to Return 10 01 2017 video by Brenda D

2017.10.22:  719 is seen from 0:00-1:55 fishing in the riffles in this video by Melissa Freels (aka MelissaInOR).  503 can be observed from 2:57-4:20 fishing from the riffles to the falls in the snow:

719_(?)_and_503_(@_approx_2_57)_in_the_Snow,_October_22,_2017_video_by_Melissa_Freels_(aka_MelissaInOR)

719 (?) and 503 (@ approx 2 57) in the Snow, October 22, 2017 video by Melissa Freels (aka MelissaInOR)

2017.10.25:  503 is the star of the show in this video by Melissa Freels (aka MelissaInOR) where he explores the river from the office to the riffles:

503_at_the_Falls,_October_25,_2017_video_by_Melissa_Freels_(aka_MelissaInOR)

503 at the Falls, October 25, 2017 video by Melissa Freels (aka MelissaInOR)

Fall 2017:[]

503 Cubadult is listed as observed on the unofficial Fall 2017 Bears Observed During Official Bear Monitoring Sessions List .

November 2017:[]

The fall 2017 cliffhanger....will 503 Cubadult be reclassified as an adult male in the 2018 Bears of Brooks River boook?

2018: 5.5 Year-Old Adult Male[]

503 was included in the adult males section of the 2018 Bears of Brooks River book on page 77.  His official nickname, Cubadult no longer appeared next to his bear monitoring number.:

The Salmon Quest by GreenRiver:

The_Salmon_Quest_-_2018_Bear_Cam_Trailer

The Salmon Quest - 2018 Bear Cam Trailer

503 Cubadult, 719 and 806 (2017 Little Lip Fisher), video by GreenRiver

Beneath A Northern Sky ~ 2018 Bear Cam Trailer by GreenRiver.:

Beneath_a_Northern_Sky_-_2018_Bear_Cam_Trailer_by_GreenRiver

Beneath a Northern Sky - 2018 Bear Cam Trailer by GreenRiver

2018 Season:[]

Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) created this video of 503 Cubadult observations during the 2018 season.:

The_Prince_of_Katmai_503_Cubadult_2018_by_Deanna_Dittloff_(aka_deelynnd)

The Prince of Katmai 503 Cubadult 2018 by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd)

Green River created this video of 503 Cubadult titled "Katmai Brown Bear 503 in 2018."

Katmai_Brown_Bear_503_in_2018._Video_by_GreenRiver

Katmai Brown Bear 503 in 2018. Video by GreenRiver

JG shared these 2018 snapshots of 503 Cubadult captured between June 24, 2018 and October 19, 2018.  (#1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 , #6 , #7 , #8 , #9 , #10 , #11 , #12 , #13 , #14 , #15 , #16 , #17 , #18 & #19 ):

GreenRiver created this The Legend of 503 Brown Bear video during the 2018 season.:

The_Legend_of_503_Brown_Bear_of_Brooks_River_and_His_Family_Continues_in_2018_by_GreenRiver-0

The Legend of 503 Brown Bear of Brooks River and His Family Continues in 2018 by GreenRiver-0

June 2018:[]

2018.06.11:  Mike Fitz' June 11, 2018 Explore.org blog:  2018 Bearcam Stories:  503 

2018.06.23:  503 Cubadult return to the Falls in 2018 video by Brenda D. On June 23rd, 503 walks up to the Falls from the Riffles. He immediately catches a salmon.  This was the 1st fish cam viewers observed caught by a bear in the 2018 season. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.

06.23.2018_-_503_Enters_Riffles_to_Falls,_Catches,_Leaves_by_Brenda_D-0

06.23.2018 - 503 Enters Riffles to Falls, Catches, Leaves by Brenda D-0

2018.06.24:  Truman Everts shared this 6/24/2018 photo of 503 on 4/21/2020. Truman Everts shared two 6/24/2018 photos of 503 Cubadult on 8/27/2020, #1 and #2.

Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!

July 2018:[]

2018.07.06:  Park visitor and cam viewer NWBearLove92 captured 2 photos of 89 Backpack playing with 503 Cubadult. The photos were shared on chat on 3/18/2020,  #1, #2  

Please request NWBearLove92's permission prior to using any of their photographs!

2018.07.07:  NWBearLove92 shared this 7/7/2018 photo of 89 Backpack (left) and 503 Cubadult (right) in the riffles on 5/7/2020.  Of interest, 89 Backpack's mother is 435 Holly. 503 is the adopted son of 435 Holly. NWBearLove92 shared these 7/7/2018 photos of 503 Cubadult playing with a subadult on 5/31/2020, #1, #2, #3, #4 and #5. "This 503 play fight on the lower river was really fun to watch and went on for a long time. I don’t know the ID of the other bear...maybe someone else does."

Please request NWBearLove92's permission prior to using any of their photographs!

2018.07.17:  503 Cubadult splashes 480 Otis McKate's Falls Low View cam video :

17_Jul_2018_503_Dares_to_Splash_480_Otis_~_Falls_Low_View_Cam_by_McKate

17 Jul 2018 503 Dares to Splash 480 Otis ~ Falls Low View Cam by McKate

151 Walker tries to steal 503 Cubadult's fish, 480 Otis breaks up the fight video by Erum Chad (aka Erie).:

Bear_Walker_tried_to_steal_503_fish_Otis_broke_the_fight_2018_07_17_Brooks_falls_by_Erum_Chad_(aka_Erie)

Bear Walker tried to steal 503 fish Otis broke the fight 2018 07 17 Brooks falls by Erum Chad (aka Erie)

503 can be seen playing with 820 from 0:08-0:40 in this 7/17/2018 video by Birgitt.

503_Plays_with_LLF_&_812_2018-07-17,_video_by_Birgitt

503 Plays with LLF & 812 2018-07-17, video by Birgitt

2018.07.28:  503 Cubadult playing with 806 "Little Lip Fisher" video by mckate.:

28_Jul_2018_503_and_804_Lippy_Play_Date_by_McKate

28 Jul 2018 503 and 804 Lippy Play Date by McKate

2018.07.29:  503 Cubadult playing with Little Lip Fisher (804 ? or 806 ?) rematch video by mckate.:

29_Jul_2018_503_804_Lippy_Rematch_by_mckate-0

29 Jul 2018 503 804 Lippy Rematch by mckate-0

503 Cubadult attacks 719 video by tsaneda.:

503_attacks_29Jul2018_by_tsandea

503 attacks 29Jul2018 by tsandea

2018.07.30:  503 Cubadult invidtes Little Lip Fisher (804 ? or 806 ?) to play video by mckate.:

30_Jul_2018_503_Invites_804_to_Play_by_mckate

30 Jul 2018 503 Invites 804 to Play by mckate

August 2018:[]

2018.08.03:  503 Cubadult and 854 Divot video by mckate.:

3_Aug_2018_503_Makes_Faces_Behind_854's_Back_by_mckate-0

3 Aug 2018 503 Makes Faces Behind 854's Back by mckate-0

2018.08.04:  128 grazers 503 Cubadult when he comes to join 812 on the lip video by Birgitt.

"Bear 128 Grazer is eating a fish when 503 comes to join his younger brother 812 on the lip. Finished with her fish, 128 decides that 503 is too close for comfort and grazers him. And then makes a very smooth catch.":

128_Grazers_503_When_He_Comes_to_Join_812_on_Lip_2018-08-04_by_Birgitt

128 Grazers 503 When He Comes to Join 812 on Lip 2018-08-04 by Birgitt

Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA) created this video of 854 Divot and 503 Cubadult; 854/Divot schools 503/Cubadult on his issues with personal space bubbles. The "action" starts at the 3 min mark.:

854-503_2018-08-04_by_Flyer_7474_(SteveCA)-0

854-503 2018-08-04 by Flyer 7474 (SteveCA)-0

KNP volunteer Maurice Whalen captured 8/4/2018 video "Bear 854, Divot, gives a firmly worded warning" to 503. Turn up your sound.

Bear_854,_Divot,_gives_a_firmly_worded_warning_-_Aug_4,_2018

Bear 854, Divot, gives a firmly worded warning - Aug 4, 2018

Video by Maurice Whalen


2018.08.07:  503 & 480 Otis encounter video by Deanna Dittloff:

Otis_&_503_Encounter_August_7,_2018_by_Deanna_Dittloff_(aka_deelynnd)

Otis & 503 Encounter August 7, 2018 by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd)

2018.08.09:  480 Otis and 503 Cubadult argument a draw video by McKate.:

9_Aug_2018_480_Otis_and_503_Argument_a_Draw!_by_McKate-0

9 Aug 2018 480 Otis and 503 Argument a Draw! by McKate-0

480 Otis goes after 503 Cubadult by the island part 1 from Falls Low View cam video by Birgitt.:

480_Goes_After_503_by_Island_Part_1_Lower_Cam_2018-08-09_by_Birgitt

480 Goes After 503 by Island Part 1 Lower Cam 2018-08-09 by Birgitt

480 Otis goes after 503 Cubadult by the island part 2 from Falls (regular - high view) cam video by Birgitt.:

480_Goes_After_503_by_Island_Part_2_Falls_Cam_2018-08-09_by_Birgitt

480 Goes After 503 by Island Part 2 Falls Cam 2018-08-09 by Birgitt

2018.08.10:  151 Walker plays with 503 Cubadult, gives 480 Otis a smooch video by mckate.:

10_Aug_2018_151_Walker_Plays_with_503,_Gives_480_Otis_a_Smooch_by_mckate-0

10 Aug 2018 151 Walker Plays with 503, Gives 480 Otis a Smooch by mckate-0

2018.08.15:  747 attacking 503 Cubadult in the office and then chasing him out of the far pool, riffles view video by Lani H.:

747_attacking_503_in_the_office_then_chasing_him_out_of_the_far_pool,_riffles_view_8_15_2018_by_Lani_H-0

747 attacking 503 in the office then chasing him out of the far pool, riffles view 8 15 2018 by Lani H-0

747 attacking 503 Cubadult in the office, Brooks Falls Low Cam view video by Lani H.:

747_attacking_503_in_the_office,_Brooks_Falls_Low_Cam_view_8_15_2018_by_Lani_H-0

747 attacking 503 in the office, Brooks Falls Low Cam view 8 15 2018 by Lani H-0

2018.08.19:  On this rainy day in August 2018, a limping 755 Scare D Bear gingerly made his way down the steep, slick river bank across the river. 503 Cubadult, Katmai's caregiver, was there to offer his friend some encouragement in this video by tsaneda.:

755_came_down_the_hill_August_2018_by_tsaneda-0

755 came down the hill August 2018 by tsaneda-0

2018.08.22:  503 Cubadult and 747 in the far pool video by Birgitt.:

747_w_503_in_Far_Pool_2018-08-22_by_Birgitt-0

747 w 503 in Far Pool 2018-08-22 by Birgitt-0

2018.08.23:  503 Cubadult and 151 Walker play fight video by Arlene Beech.:

Walker(151)_and_503_play_fighting_at_Brooks_Falls._12.45_23_August_2018_by_Arlene_Beech

Walker(151) and 503 play fighting at Brooks Falls. 12.45 23 August 2018 by Arlene Beech

2018.08.24:  503 Cubadult toys with 812 video by mckate.  "It's a gray day. The fish aren't jumping and your friends are away. Would there be a better way to pass the time than by annoying your little brother? ":

24_Aug_2018_503_Toys_with_812_by_mckate-0

24 Aug 2018 503 Toys with 812 by mckate-0

812 won't relinquish the jacuzzi to 503 Cubadult video by Birgitt.  3.5 year old subadult 812 won't relinquish the Jacuzzi to his 5.5 year old brother from another litter 503.   Both are offspring of 402 Brooke and grandsons of 24 BB who was the most dominant boar on the river for 10+ years.:

Bear_812_Won't_Relinquish_the_J_to_503_2018-08-24_by_Birgitt

Bear 812 Won't Relinquish the J to 503 2018-08-24 by Birgitt

2018.08.25:  503 Cubadult's race to the jacuzzi gif created by Cruiser. :

2018.08.26:  Brothers 503 Cubadult and 812 spar in the jacuzzi video by Birgitt.  Bears 503 and 812, 402's sons from different litters, spar in the Jacuzzi. Both of these bears are the offspring of bear 402 who is herself the daughter of 24 BB who was the most dominant bear on Brooks River for nearly a decade. Both show signs of being very dominant bears and, although from different litters, enjoyed each other's company in the summer of 2018.:

Brothers_503_&_812_Spar_in_the_J_2018-08-26_by_Birgitt-0

Brothers 503 & 812 Spar in the J 2018-08-26 by Birgitt-0

2018.08.30:  503 Cubadult gets a 128 Grazer surprise video by mckate.:

30_Aug_2018_503_Gets_a_128_Surprise_by_mckate-0

30 Aug 2018 503 Gets a 128 Surprise by mckate-0

September 2018:[]

2018.09.??:  503 Cubadult video by Melissa Freels.:

503,_September_2018_by_Melissa_Freels

503, September 2018 by Melissa Freels

2018.09.02:  503 Cubadult and his beggar entourage video by Ratna.:

503_and_his_beggar_entourage_September_2,_2018_by_Ratna

503 and his beggar entourage September 2, 2018 by Ratna

854 Divot, 806 "Little Lip Fisher", 719 and 812 wait for 503 Cubadult's scraps video by Birgitt.:

854_Divot,_806_LLF,_719_&_812_Wait_For_503's_Scraps_2018-09-02_by_Birgitt-3

854 Divot, 806 LLF, 719 & 812 Wait For 503's Scraps 2018-09-02 by Birgitt-3


2018.09.03:  503 Cubadult and 151 Walker video by mckate:

3_Sep_2018_151_Walker_to_503,_"I_Can_Still_Flip_You,_Dude!"_by_mckate

3 Sep 2018 151 Walker to 503, "I Can Still Flip You, Dude!" by mckate

2018.09.04:  719 takes over the jacuzzi while 503 Cubadult and 812 play video by Birgitt:

719_Takes_Over_J_While_503_&_812_Goof_Off_2018-09-04_by_Birgitt-1

719 Takes Over J While 503 & 812 Goof Off 2018-09-04 by Birgitt-1

503 Cubadult, 719, 812 and 806 Little Lip Fisher at the falls part 2 video by Birgitt.:

503,_719,_812_&_LLF_4_Musketeers_at_the_Falls_Pt_2_2018-09-04_by_Birgitt-0

503, 719, 812 & LLF 4 Musketeers at the Falls Pt 2 2018-09-04 by Birgitt-0

812 and 719 share the jacuzzi after 503 Cubadult leaves video by Birgitt.  68 (?) and 879 are fishing in the far pool at Brooks Falls when we pan out to 503 leaving the jacuzzi and his siblings 719 and 812 move in the share the J.  806 Little Lip Fisher (number to be clarified) is fishing the lip above them.:

812_&_719_Share_the_J_After_503_Leaves_2018-09-04_by_Birgitt-1

812 & 719 Share the J After 503 Leaves 2018-09-04 by Birgitt-1

2018.09.06:  "Last fall (2018) 503 went on a charm offensive to keep Chunk from taking over the J. He knows it’s awkward to boot a friend from his spot, and this tactic sometimes worked. When it didn’t, he even resorted to pouting which was effective at least once."   Mckate shared videos from September 24, 2018 , October 6, 2018 and September 6, 2018 to demonstrate this.:

6_Sep_2018_503_Guilts_32_Chunk_Into_Leaving_the_J_by_mckate

6 Sep 2018 503 Guilts 32 Chunk Into Leaving the J by mckate

2018.09.10:  503 Cubadult and 812 smelling 856? video by mckate.:

10_Sep_2018_503_and_812_Smelling_856?_by_mckate

10 Sep 2018 503 and 812 Smelling 856? by mckate

2018.09.14:  503 Cubadult and 856 video by Martina:

2018-9-14_856_&_503_by_Martina-0

2018-9-14 856 & 503 by Martina-0

At approximately 14:45 AKDT 856 chases 503 Cubadult up the hill and then follows him video by Cheryl B:

2018_09_14_@2_45_PM_AKDT_856_chases_503_up_the_hill_then_follows_him_by_Cheryl_B

2018 09 14 @2 45 PM AKDT 856 chases 503 up the hill then follows him by Cheryl B

2018.09.14 - 2018.09.17:  Park visitor and cam viewer, Ratna Narayan captured this photo of 503 Cubadult.  This is one of Ratna's favorite photos of 503 from her trip.  Ratna likes this photo she captured "because of the look in his eyes ".  Ratna also captured this photo of 503.  Another wonderful 503 Cubadult photo by RatnaRatna's photo of 503 Cubadult with a freshly caught salmon.  Ratna captured this photo of 503 Cubadult in the jacuzzi.  Ratna also captured this photo of 503 Cubadult.  Ratna captured another photo of 503 Cubadult with a fresh catch.  Ratna captured another photo of 503 Cubadult in the jacuzzi.  Ratna doesn't disappoint with this photo of 503 Cubadult.  Ratna captured this photo of 503 Cubadult (right) with another bear (who left).  Ratna shared this photo of 503 Cubadult's rump.  Ratna also shared this photo of 503 Cubadult.  Ratna captured these photographs (#1 B&W & #2 Color) of 503 with 812 (p 02/26/2020 08:54 ).:

Please request Ratna's permission prior to using her photos!

Cam viewer, Kam created this artwork inspired by one of Ratna Narayan's September 14, 2018 - September 17, 2018 photos.:

Park visitor and cam viewer, Ratna Narayan captured these photos (#1 & #2 ) of 503 Cubadult and 719.  "How quickly it goes from sure I will share my fish to 503 stop eating all my fish!":

Please request Ratna's permission prior to using her photos!

Park visitor and cam viewer, Ratna Narayan captured these photos of 503 Cubadult with 812:  Photo #1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , & #5 .  Ratna also shared these photos of 503 Cubadult with 812.:  Photo #1 , #2 & #3 (note only the newly shared photos from this comment are linked here).:

Please request Ratna's permission prior to using her photos!


2018.09.14 - 2018.09.17:  Park visitor and cam viewer, Ratna Narayan captured this photo of 503 Cubadult (near) with 480 Otis (far).:

2018.09.14 - 2018.09.17:  Park visitor and cam viewer, Ratna Narayan captured this photo of 151 Walker and 503 Cubadult during her trip to Brooks Camp.:

Please request Ratna's permsision prior to using her photographs!

Cam viewer, Scooch created this paraphrase of Buzza Motto to go with Ratna's photograph:

"151 Walker to 503 ~

There are lots of bears
in the world, it is true
Lots of bears,
but only one you
And I count myself lucky
and shall to the end
That out of them all
I have you for a friend!"

Ratna also shared this photo of 503 Cubadult (left) with 151 Walker (right).:

Please request Ratna's permission prior to using her photos!

2018.09.15:  503 Cubadult with 812 video by Ratna Narayan, from her trip to Brooks Camp.:

Horsing_around_812_and_503_shot_on_Sept_15_2018_by_Ratna_Narayan_(from_her_trip_to_Brooks_Camp)-0

Horsing around 812 and 503 shot on Sept 15 2018 by Ratna Narayan (from her trip to Brooks Camp)-0

503 Cubadult, 89 Backpack and 151 Walker in the jacuzzi:

Part 1 video by Birgitt:

Boars_89_Backpack,_151_Walker_&_503_Cubadult_Sharing_the_J_&_Playing_Pt_1_2018-09-15_by_Birgitt

Boars 89 Backpack, 151 Walker & 503 Cubadult Sharing the J & Playing Pt 1 2018-09-15 by Birgitt

Part 2 video by Birgitt:

Boars_89_Backpack,_151_Walker_&_503_Share_the_J_&_Play_Fight_Pt_2_2018-09-15_by_Birgitt-0

Boars 89 Backpack, 151 Walker & 503 Share the J & Play Fight Pt 2 2018-09-15 by Birgitt-0

Birgitt captured this 9/15/2018 video of 151 Walker going after 503 in the far pool while 719 stands her ground.

151_Goes_After_503_in_the_Far_Pool_719_Stands_Her_Ground_2018-09-15_10-48-37-917,_video_by_Birgitt

151 Goes After 503 in the Far Pool 719 Stands Her Ground 2018-09-15 10-48-37-917, video by Birgitt


2018.09.21:  503 Cubadult attempts to greet 284 "Electra" video by mckate.:

21_Sep_2018_503_Tries_to_Greet_284_by_mckate-0

21 Sep 2018 503 Tries to Greet 284 by mckate-0

2018.09.22:  503 Cubadult bites 274 Overflow video by mckate.:

22_Sep_2018_503_Bites_274_Overflow_by_mckate-0

22 Sep 2018 503 Bites 274 Overflow by mckate-0

2018.09.23:  32 Chunk plays with 503 Cubadult video by mckate.:

23_Sep_2018_32_Chunk_Plays_with_503_Cubadult_by_mckate-0

23 Sep 2018 32 Chunk Plays with 503 Cubadult by mckate-0

32 Chunk play fights with 503, 9/23/2018 video by Lani H.

32_Chunk_play_fights_with_503_9_23_2018,_video_by_Lani_H

32 Chunk play fights with 503 9 23 2018, video by Lani H

2018.09.24:  "Last fall (2018) 503 went on a charm offensive to keep Chunk from taking over the J. He knows it’s awkward to boot a friend from his spot, and this tactic sometimes worked. When it didn’t, he even resorted to pouting which was effective at least once."   Mckate shared videos from September 24, 2018 , October 6, 2018 and September 6, 2018 to demonstrate this.:

24_Sep_2018_32_Chunk_and_503_Play_in_the_J_by_mckate

24 Sep 2018 32 Chunk and 503 Play in the J by mckate

32 Chunk and 503 play fight in the jacuzzi, 9/24/2019 video by Lani H.

32_Chunk_and_503_play_fight_in_the_jacuzzi_9_24_2018,_video_by_Lani_H

32 Chunk and 503 play fight in the jacuzzi 9 24 2018, video by Lani H

Cruiser created this gif of 503 Cubadult and another subadult / young adult (possibly Little Lip Fisher 804 ? or 806 /?).  Mckate seemed to think the other bear is Little Lip Fisher as Little Lip Fisher "gets embarrassed for him when he rolls around like that ":

2018.09.27:  503 and 32 Chunk play in the jacuzzi, 9/27/2018 video by Lani H.

503_and_32_Chunk_play_fight_in_the_jacuzzi_9_27_2018,_video_by_Lani_H

503 and 32 Chunk play fight in the jacuzzi 9 27 2018, video by Lani H

October 2018:[]

2018.10.06:  A wild incident  (best watched in slo-motion) involving 602 (best watched in slo-mo). 602 tries to steal 503 Cubadult's fish and 719 comes to the rescue yanking 602 off his feet. 812 checks on 602 in the aftermath while it looks like 720(?) just watches the lost fish float by in this video by mckate.:

6_Oct_2018_719_Defends_503_by_mckate-1

6 Oct 2018 719 Defends 503 by mckate-1

"Last fall (2018) 503 went on a charm offensive to keep Chunk from taking over the J. He knows it’s awkward to boot a friend from his spot, and this tactic sometimes worked. When it didn’t, he even resorted to pouting which was effective at least once."   Mckate shared videos from September 24, 2018 , October 6, 2018 and September 6, 2018 to demonstrate this.  "Chunk seemed like he wanted the J, but 503 headed him off with a friendly gesture. A little later Chunk joined 503 in the J. When 503 didn't yield it to him, Chunk eventually left. It was all very friendly. 503's a clever bear.":

6_Oct_2018_503_Charms_32_by_mckate

6 Oct 2018 503 Charms 32 by mckate

2018.10.08:  83 Wayne Brother having words with 503 Cubadult video by Ratna.:

83_having_words_with_503_at_the_falls_October_8,_2018_by_Ratna-0

83 having words with 503 at the falls October 8, 2018 by Ratna-0

Fall 2018:[]

GreenRiver shared this fall 2018 shapshot  of 503 Cubadult (background) with 812 and 719.  On June 2, 2019 GreenRiver shared these thoughts about this fall 2018 snapshot.:

"Last fall (2018) when I saw this, where 503 walked from the office, walked past 812, stopped briefly to accept a greeting from 719 and then walked on, I almost teared up. Somehow it seemed somewhat prophetic as if he was saying goodbye to his childhood and moving on. 812 and 719 stood there lined up like subjects in a royal receiving line. I hope he doesn’t change."



2019:  6.5 Year-Old Adult Male[]

January 2019:[]

2019.01.20:  Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) created this video of 503 Cubadult & 480 Otis with the dancing salmon.: