747 August 2021 NPS photo
Adult Male ~ 2020 and 2022 FAT BEAR WEEK CHAMPION
Year First Identified: 2004 as subadult
Last Year Observed: 2023
Offspring Of: Unknown at this time
Genetics Study Samples Obtained: 747 was successfully sampled in 2005 and 2006 with both hair and tissue samples obtained by former wildlife biologist Tamara Olson. There were no darting attempts (successful or unsuccessful) in 2016 or 2017 by Ranger Michael Saxton. We are awaiting genetics study sample information from Ranger Saxton / KNP&P staff for 2018 and 2019.
Identification:[]
747 is one of the largest, heaviest bears that use Brooks River. He has a medium-brown coat with reddish shoulders. Early in the summer, his fur regularly sheds out in a erratic pattern and he often has a noticeable shed patch on his forehead. During the fall months, his fur is dark brown. His ears are round and peg-like, and his face has a prominent brow ridge. He has dark claws, a short but blocky muzzle, and a large, stocky, and squat body.
From Meet Bear 747 video : Watch this Meet Bear 747 video my Mike Fitz, Resident Naturalist with Explore.org to learn identification and distinctive behaviors that will help you identify 747.
Distinctive Behaviors:[]
He is often seen at Brooks Falls in July and is very successful at fishing in the jacuzzi and far pool. He also fishes the falls in September and October. 747 does not appear to be wary of people on the viewing platforms near Brooks Falls and is sometimes seen near the mouth of the Brooks River. In years past, he was rarely seen in areas with high numbers of people. 747 was not regularly seen at Brooks Falls until fall. After arriving, he was commonly seen displacing the largest, most dominant bears and yielding to none.
Life History:[]
2004: Subadult, 1st Year Identified[]
747 was initially identified in 2004 and classified as a subadult.
July 2004:[]
On October 10, 2017 Mike Fitz also shared this photograph of 747 as a subadult.
2005:[]
Add here
2006:[]
Add here
2007: Adult Male[]
2007 Season:[]
Mike Fitz, former KNP&P ranger, shared this 2007 season photo of 747:
Please request Mike Fitz' permission prior to using his photograph!
July 2007:[]
747 (left) and 755 Scare D. Bear (right) stand next to each other near the far side of Brooks Falls in early July 2007. NPS photo from Testing the Water by Mike Fitz :
2007.07.03: NPS photo of 747 "Colbert" (right, down river) with 24 BB aka Bald Butt (left, foreground) and 418 Jack (in far pool / center / background).
2007.07.06 or SHORTLY AFTER: Park visitors, Steve and Lori Agrella, captured a few photographs of 747 during their July 2007 trip to Brooks Camp. They set out on their adventure to Brooks Camp/Katmai NP&P on July 6, 2007 . Some of their 747 photographs can be found at these links.:
Bear Essence by Lori Agrella (747 is the bear in the foreground in the photograph at the bottom right of the blog #41 / 112). At this link to the same blog, photo #39 / 112 appears in the lower right , 747 is again the bear in the foreground). The Agrella's photo #61 / 112 , #66 / 112 , #67 / 112 , & #110 / 112 .
In Steve Agrella's blog: Brooks Lodge and Campground he says: "The images you are about to view portray our adventure into what for us, an unknown enviornment. It quickly became a spiritual experience like none we have ever known."
2007.07.22 or PRIOR: Park visitor, e6thyyujk, captured this video of 747 .
2007.07.26: Park visitor, Florence Nubuko Smith, captured this photograph of 747.
September 2007:[]
2008: Adult Male[]
June 2008:[]
July 2008:[]
2008.07.??: This July, 2008 video by Tomasz Bobrowski shows 747 at Brooks Falls (1:56-2:16). The identification of 747 was confirmed by Mike Fitz.
2009: Adult Male[]
2009 Season:[]
2009.??.??: 480 Otis displaces 747 from the jacuzzi gif from the 2018 Bearcam Stories: The Elders of Brooks River Explore Medium blog by Mike Fitz.:
June 2009:[]
2009.06.26: Bocaflip captured this photograph of 747. On the same day, bocaflip photographed 747 mating with an unknown sow, photos #1, #2, #3 and #4. Mike Fitz said he did not recognize the sow in this 1/22/2020 comment.
July 2009:[]
2009.07.26: Ranger Roy Wood's photos (#1 & #2 ) of 747 vs 6 Headbob / Bullet after 6 stole 747's fish.
August 2009:[]
2009.08.02: 747 "Colbert" photographs (#1 & #2 ) by Ranger Roy Wood from the KNP&P flickr 747 "Colbert" gallery .
September 2009:[]
2009.09.12: 747 "Colbert" photograph by Ranger Roy Wood from the KNP&P flickr 747 "Colbert" gallery .
2010: Adult Male[]
2010 Season:[]
2010 or PRIOR: Robert Finer captured this video of 747 playfighting with 489 Ted.
July 2010:[]
2010.07.??: Matt Hirt recorded video of 634 Popeye catching and eating a fish in July 2010. 747 can also be seen entering the frame at 0:17. Both identifications were confirmed by Mike Fitz on 2/5/2021. "Can confirm that is Popeye and 747. That was before 747 ballooned into his current size."
2010.07.05: Park visitor and cam viewer, Carman captured these photographs of 747 while visiting Brooks Camp. #1: 747 on the island down river of Brooks Falls. & #2: 747, near with 234 Evander, far.
Please request Carman's permission prior to using their photographs!
2010.07.22: Jim & Deb Chagares captured these photographs of 747 courting / attempting to mate with 410: #1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 , #6 , #7 , & #8 .
2010.07.26: 747 is seen below the falls from 1:53-2:02 in this 7/26/2010 video by Gordon Laing.
Brooks Falls Bears Fishing - with Canon EOS 7D and HV30, July 26 2010 video by Gordon Laing
Video by Gordon Laing
September 2010:[]
2011: Adult Male[]
2011 Season:[]
747 mated wtih 94 .
July 2011:[]
Park visitor Terry Traveland (aka smuzta) captured this video of 489 Ted begging 747 for fish. 489 Ted defends his place in line by displacing another bear that wanted to also have a place in line for 747's scraps. Make sure to have your sound turned up to hear the vocalizations.:
2011.07.20: Eagle Eye Imaging captured many photos of 747 between 7/20-7/23/2011, photo #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6 and #7.
2012: Adult Male[]
747 was included in the 2012 Brown Bears of Brooks Camp iBook.:
2012 Season:[]
2012 Season or PRIOR: Sebastian Homuth captured these 3 videos of 747 during the 2012 season or prior.: (published December 6, 2012):
Video #1 :
Video #2 :
Video #3 :
2012.07 or PRIOR: ccjackson18 captured this video of possibly 128 Grazer(? maybe) or 451 (? maybe, 451 not officially ID'd until 2013) being displaced by 747's approach:
747 NPS photos July 2012 vs September 2012 from the 2014 Bears of Brooks River book page 9:
July 2012:[]
2012.07.23: Team 399 captured video of 489 Ted begging from 747 in this 7/23/2012 video. The date was confirmed by Team 399 in the comments below the video.
August 2012:[]
2012.08.01: 747 video by Charlie Hilliard:
2012.08.03: 747 and 218 Ugly video by Charlie Hilliard:
September 2012:[]
2013: Adult Male[]
2013 Season:[]
Park visitor, Linda Guy captured this photograph of 747 during the 2013 season.
July 2013:[]
2013.07.15 - 2013.07.18: Kristina Trowbridge captured this photograph of a gull helping itself to some of 747's salmon.
2013.07.21: 747 "Colbert" photograph by Ranger Jeanne, curated by Ranger Roy Wood from the KNP&P flickr 747 "Colbert" gallery .
September 2013:[]
2014: Adult Male[]
747 was included in the 2014 Bears of Brooks River book on page 25:
June 2014:[]
July 2014:[]
2014.07.20: Tim Auer captured these photographs (#1 & #2 ) of 747.
2014.07.27: 480 Otis and 747 don't want to share the jacuzzi video by HDOnTap.:
September 2014:[]
2015: Adult Male[]
747 was included in the 2015 Bears of Brooks River book on page 64:
2015 Season:[]
2015.??.??: 747 displaces 480 Otis from the jacuzzi gif from the 2018 Bearcam Stories: The Elders of Brooks River Explore Medium blog by Mike Fitz.:
2015.??.??: Jenny of Zealandia Designs captured this photograph of 747 during the 2015 season.
Mike Fitz captured this footage of 747 courting 128 Grazer.:
June 2015:[]
Will Olson / pleaserocktheboat (one of the people that work on the Explore.org live cams) captured this video of 747 while at Brooks Camp on June 20, 2015 or prior. On June 18, 2015 or prior, Will Olson / pleaserocktheboat captured this photo of 747 . Note: This account has been made private.
2015.06.25: Mike Fitz captured this photograph of 747.
Please request Mike Fitz's permission prior to using his photos!
2015.06.28: Mike Fitz captured this photograph of 747 napping in the Brooks River. Please request Mike Fitz's permission prior to using his photos!
July 2015:[]
2015.07.??: Laura Lyn Photography photographed 747 nuzzling 410 in July of 2015.
2015.07.04: Mike Fitz captured this photograph of 747 and his salmon.
Please request Mike Fitz's permission prior to using his photos!
2015.07.06: Mike Fitz captured this photograph of 747. Please request Mike Fitz's permission prior to using his photos!
2015.07.09: Park visitor James Schienle captured two 7/9/2015 photos of 747, #1 and #2.
2015.07.11: Park visitor and cam viewer, Baby Peas, captured this photograph of 747 eating a salmon. Baby peas shared four additional 7/11/2015 photos of 747 on 4/2/2022, #1, #2, #3 and #4.
Please request Baby pea's permission prior to using her photographs!
2015.07.13: Mike Fitz captured this photograph of 747. Please request Mike Fitz's permission prior to using his photos!
2015.07.14: "775 Lefty shows too much interest in 32 Chunk's fish. They have a fairly prolonged boxing match. A screen shot I (Goldilocks) took, at the time, showed that 32 knocked 775 right off his feet the first time he shoved him. 775 recovers amazingly fast.....all that wrestling as cubs serves the bears well. 747 takes offence.....goes up on the lip and breaks up the fight.....then chases 32 out of the river." as described by Goldilocks Canada . Video by Lyn Gulbransen.
2015.07.18: 480 Otis' interactions with 775 Lefty and 747 video .:
2015.07.20: Mike Fitz captured this photograph of 747.
Please request Mike Fitz's permission prior to using his photos!
2016: Adult Male[]
747 was included in the 2016 Bears of Brooks River book on page 75:
2016 Season:[]
2016.??.?? (or Prior): Mocha captured this video of 747 cowboy walking and displaying his dominance. The bear that 747 directly approaches with the missing right ear is 814 Lurch. The two bears above the falls are 89 Backpack (near) and 410 (far).
-856 cowboy walk (RIP -814)
747 (not 856 as appears in the title of the video) Cowboy Walking with 814 Lurch, 89 Backpack, and 410. September 2016 or prior. Video by Mocha
2016.??.??: Mike Fitz captured this video of 747 rubbing the tree on the island below the falls: (Published December 2016). "Male brown bears rub on trees to mark their presence in an area. The hair on the tree and the urine they also leave on the ground leaves scents that are thought to communicate information such as relative dominance in the hierarchy."
2016.??.??: Mocha captured this video of 747 (not 856) cowboy walking, jaw popping, and asserting his dominance over 814 Lurch . 89 Backpack and 410 Four Ton are the bears above the falls.
2016.??.??: Jenny at Zealandia Designs captured this video of 747 rubbing a tree near the riffles platform and cowboy walking:
2016.??.??: Cruiser shared this 2016 season snapshot of 747 that shows his shed pattern (p 01/22/2020 03:01 ).:
June 2016:[]
2016.06.05: Brooks Lodge's June 5, 2016 Facebook post with Kara Stenberg's photo of 747 "taking a stroll past employee housing. It's amazing how big this bear is before the sockeye salmon arrive! "
Please request Kara Stenberg's permission prior to using her photograph!
2016.06.23:
747 footage begins at the 10:00 mark into this video by Ratna Narayan. 51 Diver Jr is the bear in the jacuzzi in the beginning of the video. 814 Lurch is the bear above the falls early in the video.:
747 charges and injures 83 Wayne Brother:
Video by Jusywho. This version provides both a real-time and slow motion version of the incident:
747 takes a chunk out of 83 Wayne brother video by Oh No I Didn't::
2016.06.24: 747 chases 151 Walker, 6/24/2016 video by yesitsdonna.
2016.06.26: 755 Scare D Bear, 410 & 747 video by Mickey WIlliams.:
8 ?? 6-26-16 755 scare D Bear leaves 410 and 747 leave the Falls Katmai National Park and Explore by Mickey Williams-0
747 courting 410 in this video by Mickey Williams:
This June 26, 2016 video by Martina shows some interesting behavior by 410. Goldilocks Canada shared these observations :
"At the beginning, it looks like 289 being followed by 89/Backpack. As she climbs on shore, you can see 410 sitting just upriver of the island (she was known to “attempt to share/share” fish that 747 would eat on the island). 747 appears from the area of the “J”. And follows 289 behind the downriver side of the platform. As 747 goes out of frame you can see 410 come into frame on the left. She follows the “prospective couple” out of frame.
410 had BIG “lady balls”.
Normally, the only bear that would dare to follow a courting 747 would be 856!
I believe 410 “knew” the power of courting the most dominant males. And how to use it to her benefit. She would fish the falls, with impunity from other bears, under their protective guard.....and took full advantage of that fact....day, after day, after day. ;))) She had not been seen with a new litter of cubs since 2007.
Have often wondered, was she courting for procreation, or open access to her favourite fishing spot???
Why would she follow them? Was she trying to protect her “fishing rights”?"
BF 2016 06 26 by Martina 89 Backpack courting 289, 410 just off island, 747 follows courting couple, 410 follows 747-2
2016.06.27: 410 and 747 video by Arlene Beech:
89 Backpack enters the river in the beginning of this video by Ratna. At the 1:44 mark 83 Wayne Brother (note his rump wound) can be seen heading down river against the North side while 89 Backpack continues up river. At the 2:08 mark 83 Wayne Brother leaves the North bank and heads back into the river At the 2:11 mark 814 Lurch comes into view from the island area on the right. 83 Wayne Brother and 89 Backpack both take notice of 814 Lurch's presence. At the 2:30 mark when the live cam widens the view, 410 can be seen fishing in the far pool and it becomes visible that 747 has also taken notice of 814 Lurch's arrival on the scene. 83 Wayne Brother holds his position on the North side remaining close to or on the bank. 747 displays his cowboy walk as he heads in the direction of 814 Lurch. At the 2:50 mark 89 Backpack begins his retreat to the top of the falls. At the 3:09 mark, 83 Wayne Brother begins his retreat up the hill on the North side of the river below the falls. At the 3:20 mark, 89 Backpack takes a seat on the rock At 3:25, 747 begins to move in the direction of 410 over in the far pool. At 3:32 89 Backpack moves from his seated position on the rock and heads up river. 410 also begins to move from the far pool and also makes her way above the falls as 747 comes closer. At 3:43, 814 Lurch moves down river towards the island. At 4:04 410 moves closer to the edge of the falls with 747 still remaining in the far pool. 89 Backpack makes his retreat out of view. At 4:40, 410 begins to test the option of returning to the far pool but by 4:47 as 747 moves in her direction, she rethinks that option and backs off a bit. When 410 determines that it is safe she does climb back down from above the falls and 747 continues to court 410. At 5:45, 747 takes a seat and guards 410 while she fishes in the far pool. At 9:17 747 moves towards the area between the jacuzzi and the far pool.
Awesome! 747 clears the falls but allows 410 to come off the falls and stand close to him by Ratna June 27, 2016-0
2016.06.28: Mickey Williams captured this video of 410 and 747 at approximately 11:50 AKDT.:
Mickey Williams captured this video of 747 attempting to steal 410's fish at approximately 12:50 AKDT:
12 5? pm 747 tries to steal 410's fish 89 backpack moves to J Katmai National Park and Explore by Mickey Williams-0
410 and 747 video by Ratna (89 Backpack is the other bear in the video):
410 and 747 close up video by Ratna.:
410 (background) and 747 (foreground) video by Juergen: ♥
Mickey Williams captured this video of 83 Wayne Brother (with his fresh left shoulder and rump wounds) attempting to steal 410's fish. 747 is the bear in the jacuzzi in the beginning of the video when 410 first catches her fish and then heads to the North bank of Brooks River to eat it.:
7;4?pm 6-28-16 747 chases ???755 scare D bear bear up hill Katmai National Park and Explore by Mickey Williams-0
2016.06.30: JoeBear's creation of As The Falls Flow starring 410, 89 Backpack, 856 and 747.:
July 2016:[]
2016.07.03: 747 and 68 interaction video by Mike Fitz. "As this video illustrates, bears communicate through body language to establish dominance and avoid physical conflict. Read my full breakdown of the video" at Mike Fitz' October 14, 2016 blog: Strut Your Stuff . "In the video, 747 is the heftier, darker bear. 68 is the tall, lanky bear. Both are mature adult males, likely in the prime of their lives. As I see it, bear 747 comes out of this on top as he asserts his dominance over the newcomer, 68. This took some time, however. 68 didn’t exactly yield like most would upon the approach of 747. As the video starts, 747 (left) immediately approaches the newcomer on the island. 68 subtly skirts 747, but continues his approach toward the falls. You can see that 747 is much bulkier than the newcomer, but the new bear is just as tall, if not taller.: When 747 turns his back on the new bear, 68 takes the opportunity to mark some grass (0:50). 68 is not acting submissive or yielding. The new bear approaches 747. 747 stands and watches. At this point, the outcome is very much undecided (1:12). After a little more posturing, 747 turns to mark the willow on the island. This is a bold display of dominance in front of 68. The newcomer though continues to cowboy walk away from 747, still not submissive but very focused on 747’s movements (2:00). 747 follows the exact same route on the island as 68, probably following the newcomer’s scent and leaving his own on the way (2:20). 68 postures more in the grass. 747 again marks the tree. This time for almost 30 seconds (3:18). 747 then goes to the grass where 68 just was and rubs it on his body. He seems to want to leave a scent trail everywhere his competitor has (4:05). 68 walks downriver. 747 follows. In the riffles, 747 catches up to him. Instead of fighting, the bears posture more. Here’s where 747 seems to assert his dominance more clearly. 68, instead of posturing further, stands in the riffles and watches 747 approach then walk away (5:00). The video cuts to a moment a few minutes later when 68 makes his way back to the island. This draws 747’s attention and he approaches 68 again. 747’s ears remain upright and forward, a sign of dominance in this context. The new bear’s ears are oriented back against his head, a sign of defensiveness (6:40). 747 circles 68. 747 walks away and the newcomer stands and watches, indicating that 747 successfully asserted his dominance in the interaction. 747 then goes back to the island and marks the vegetation again (7:05). 68 continues to stand and watch. Winner: 747...."
747 chases 32 Chunk video by Mickey Williams:
Ratna captured these snapshots (#1 , #2 , #3 & #4 ) of 410 with 747 (p 01/19/2020 16:19 ).:
2016.07.06: 747 video by Ratna Narayan during a play-by-play with Mike Ftiz. 747 is the only bear at the river during this video, so Mike shares a good deal of information about 747.:
2016.07.07: 747 and 814 above the falls video by Ratna Narayan:
Brenda D captured this video of 747 and 814 Lurch. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
2016.07.08: 747 rests in the river above the falls beginning at approximately 18:00 into this Explore recorder video .:
Brooks Falls - Katmai National Park, Alaska Cam 07-08-2016 15 25 12 - 16 00 00 Explore Recorder video
Pleiadians Bear's video of 747 in the river above the falls.:
Shel captured these snapshots (#1 , #2 , #3 & #4 ) of 747 in the river above the falls (p 01/25/2020 12:05 ).:
2016.07.09: Evidently 747 never read "Amy Vanderbilt's Complete Book of Etiquette". Beginning at approximately 7:20, boar 747 is the reclined bear on the left, sow 410 is sitting near 747. At 9:12, 747 tells 410 she can't have his leftovers. Explore Recorder video :
Brooks Falls - Katmai National Park, Alaska Cam 07-09-2016 23 00 01 - 23 11 42 Explore Recorder video
Brenda D's video of 747 / 410 interaction in above Explore Recorder video. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
2016.07.30: 128 Grazer takes on 747 video by Melissa Freels. 747 gets grazered.:
August 2016:[]
2016.08.??: Goldilocks shared these snapshots (#1 , #2 & #3 ) of 747 flipping his fish:
2016.08.02: 128 Grazer backs up 747 video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
2016.08.05: GreenRiver captured this snapshot of 410 (near), 747 center, and 480 Otis (far) (p 01/26/2020 06:07 ).:
2016.08.24: 747 and 474 fight video by Mickey Williams:
2016.08.26 17:15: 32 Chunk joins 747 video by Mickey Williams.:
September 2016:[]
2016.09.01: 747 and 480 Otis duke it out video by Melissa Freels:
480 Otis and 747 dustup video by David S.:
2016.09.14: 747 and 856 have discussion while 480 Otis looks on video by Lyn Gulbrasen:
2016.09.15: 747 goes after the "mystery bear" at the falls and then displaces 856 from the jacuzzi video by Ratna Narayan:
Unbelievable! 747 goes after Mystery bear at the falls then displaced 856 from the J Sept 15, 2016 by Ratna-0
747 and 856 have words in the jacuzzi video by Brenda D: (turn up your sound for this one) Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
2016.09.18: 747 video by Lyn Gulbransen:
2017: Adult Male[]
747 was included in the 2017 Bears of Brooks River book on page 77:
2017 Season: []
2017.??.??: Mikey Wright captured this video of 747 displacing and then chasing 409 Beadnose and her two yearlings (now 909 & 910).
2017.??.??: Cruiser shared this snapshot of 747 (near) with 410 (far) from the 2017 season (p 01/22/2020 16.39 ).:
August 2017:[]
2017.08.24: 747 returns to Brooks Falls video by Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA):
747 cleans up 503 Cubadult's leftovers video by Casper Pike.:
747 leaves the river video by Casper Pike:
2017.08.25: 747 climbs the boulders below the falls near the far pool from riffles cam view, video by Casper Pike.:
2017.08.28: 747 by SteveCA (aka Flyer7474):
2017.08.29: 747 and 128 Grazer with her 3 yearlings video by Birgitt:
128 Grazer "grazered" 747 (again) video by Melissa Freels:
08:18 & 09:03 am: 747 and 128 Grazer with her 3 yearlings. 128 bluff charges 747. 128 later charges 747. 747 chases 128. Video by Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA):
21:03: 128 Grazer and 747 at it again video by Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA). "For the third time today 128 goes after 747. This time 128 advanced towards 128 by the Fish Ladder and was meet at the top by 128. ":
September 2017:[]
2017.09.??: Mike Fitz captured this video of 747.:
More information can be found in this blog by Mike Fitz.
2017.09.09: At approximately 11:42 in the morning Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA) captured this video of the 747 / 474 confrontation:
2017.09.10: 747 confronts 474 in this video by Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA):
2017.09.13: 747 above Brooks Falls video by CherylB (aka BearNecessities). 151 Walker appears in this video:
2017 09 13 12 48 48 Bear 747 When your trying to look cool and it doesn't work out
747 above Brooks Falls September 13, 2017 video by CherylB (aka BearNecessities)
2017.09.22: 747 video by Ratna Narayan:
2017.09.23: 747 charges a subadult (602 maybe) in this Explore Highlights video :
Bear 747 charges subadult brown bear (602?) below Brooks Falls - Brown Bear Live Cam Explore Highlights video 09.23.17
2018: Adult Male[]
2018 Season:[]
747 NPS photos of 747 early season (June 30, 2018) vs late season (August 31, 2018) from KNP&P's October 6, 2018 12:00 Facebook post for the 2018 Fat Bear Week contest.:
Scooch shared this poem after 747 lost to 409 Beadnose as the 2018 Fat Bear Week Champion:
I know a big fat bear
The fattest for miles around,
Wherever there's lots of fish
That's where he'll be found.
He's really good at eating
It's a talent, I've been told,
And when you gaze upon him
He's a sight to behold.
I know a big fat bear
He weighs more than half a ton,
He is the fattest 'Fat Bear'
And I think he should have won!
856, the most dominant bear using the Brooks River in 2018 displaces 747 from the jacuzzi (on June 28, 2018 or prior) in this Explore Live Nature Cams video :
Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) created this video of 747 observations during the 2018 season:
Cam viewer, JG, shared these snapshots (#1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 , #6 , #7 , #8 , #9 , #10 , #11 , #12 , #13 , #14 , #15 , #16 & #17 ) of 747 from the 2018 season:
Park visitor conexaoamerica captured this video of 747 on the trail.
Melissa Freels captured these photographs (#1 & #2 ) of 747 during the 2018 season (p 01/22/2020 19.29 ).:
Please request Melissa Freels' permission prior to using her photographs!
June 2018:[]
2018.06.25: Early morning fishing session by 747 video by Casper Trout:
747 at the falls part 2 video by Casper Trout:
747 finally gets one video by Casper Pike:
747 appears to want the falls to himself in this early season video where he chases 151 Walker video by Erum Chad:
A Park visitor also filmed this same event on 6/25/2018, video by Aravind.
747 also had this interaction with an unidentified bear in this June 25, 2018 video by Ratna:
Tsaneda captured this video of 747 displaying his dominance on June 25, 2018:
2018.06.27: Brooks Camp visitor rockatte was at Brooks Falls on 6/27/2018 and filmed a number of interactions between the most dominant boar 856 and 747 who at the time was considered the 2nd most dominant.
Video #1: 856 spots 747 at the falls. He shows his dominance over 747 by cowboy walking on the island and marking a tree. 747 sits and watches, video by rockatte.
Video #2: 747 leaves and heads up behind the falls platform, 856 quickly follows, video by rockatte.
Video #3: 856 and 747 have a standoff by the falls platform exit gate. 747 is very submissive, sitting and watching 856's actions. Eventually 856 marks a tree and returns to the falls, video by rockatte.
2018.06.28: 747 interaction with 856 gif created by Xander-Sage.:
Brenda D captured this video of the interaction between 747 and 856. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
The second interaction between 747 and 856 on June 28, 2018 is captured in this video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
2018.06.30: 747 NPS photo used for 2018 Fat Bear Week contest in KNP&P's October 6, 2018 12:00 Facebook post :
July 2018:[]
2018.07.01 or earlier:
Park visitor, Mike Weagley, captured this July 2018 video of 603 (believed by some to possibly be early season 68) in the jacuzzi, 409 Beadnose and 775 Lefty on the lip (near to far), 747 in the far pool, 480 Otis and 755 Scare D. Bear by the "office" wall on the North side of the river.
Mike Weagly also captured this July 2018 video that includes 854 Divot (1st bear seen), 409 Beadnose and 775 Lefty (near to far) on the lip, 603 (believed by some to possibly be 68 in early season) in the jacuzzi, 747 in the far pool, 480 Otis in the office, and 755 Scare D Bear in the river on the North side by the downriver end of the wall.:
2018.07.01:
Approximately 07:19:
747 scratching on the downed tree branch at approximately 07:19:
Arlene Beech (aka Homebird) captured this video :
Portly 747 snacking at Brooks Falls. Katmai Brown Bears. 07.19 01 July 2018 by Arlene Beech (aka Homebird)-0
Nice close up of 747 entering the falls video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
Approximately 12:11: 856 vs 747 Altercation:
GABear created these gifs: Gif #1 & Gif #2 Xander-Sage created this gif . Shel captured these snapshots : #1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 & #6 .:
The Explore Recorder video that captures the altercation between 856 and 747. When the altercation begins, 856 is the bear on the left at 39:50 into this video :.The interaction between 856 and 747 starts prior to that.
Brenda D captured this 17 minute video of the interaction and altercation between 856 and 747. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
856 attacks 747 slow motion video by tsaneda (aka Shovelbum81). "After a fair amount of time cowboy walking and other dominance displays, 856 attacks 747 at Brooks Falls at approximately noon AKDT":
Martina captured this real-time video :
Wacher42 captured this video :
747 and 634 Popeye prior to 16:15:
747 and 634 Popeye interacted prior to their altercation at 16:15. Martina captured this video :
Then at approximately 16:15: 747 and 634 Popeye have an altercation:
Pkilborn created this gif .
LuvBears captured this video :
Martina captured this video :
747 ambushes 634 Popeye from behind, takes him down video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
747 has words with 409 Beadnose video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
747 and 83 Wayne Brother:
Ratna captured this video :
2018.07.02: Far different from the day 747 had on July 1, 2018, 747 calmly fishes in the far pool with 480 Otis in the office when 274 Overflow comes splashing in and slip sliding away video by Melissa Freels.:
2018.07.03 or PRIOR: James Reeves video of 747 on 7/3/2018 or earlier (132 and her 2 spring cubs are seen at 1:49. One of those cubs was unfortunately killed by 856 later that day). 747 is observed at 1:44-1:47, 3:31-3:35 and 3:43-3:47).
2018.07.05: NWBearLove92 shared a 7/5/2018 photo of 747 on 5/23/2020.
Please request NWBearLove92's permission prior to using any of their photographs!
2018.07.06: NWBearLove 92 shared a 7/6/2018 photo of 747 in chat on 4/17/2020.
Please request NWBearLove92's permission prior to using any of their photographs!
2018.07.07 or PRIOR: Park visitor shantietjen posted this video of a contact interaction between 747 and 89 Backpack to their instagram on July 7, 2018 Note: This account was made private and the video is now not available.
2018.07.08: Shel posted this 7/8/2018 Explore Recorder video on 2/17/2021. Shel's comments :"In the the below 2018 video near 35:27 -- Bear 68 is in the jacuzzi and does not move from it when 747 approaches him. Maybe that was a sign 68 might be willing to take on 747 in a serious fight. The following year (early in the season, 7/2/2019), 68 approached the jacuzzi when 747 was in it. A major fight between 68 and 747 ensued, with 68 dominating/displacing 747. For the remainder of the 2019 season, 68 generally appeared to dominate 747. Bear 68 was not seen on cam in 2020."
At 35:27, bear 68* is in the jacuzzi and does not allow 747 to displace him. (video by Brenda D, 35:27 start).
2018.07.11: On 7/11/2018 The Explore Recorder captured 747 approaching the Brooks Falls low cam and giving cam viewers a very close up look at 5:50. He also gazed up at people on the Brook Falls platform.
Brooks Falls Brown Bears Low 07-11-2018 15 24 12 - 16 24 16-0
Brooks Falls Low Cam, 7/11/2018. 747 approaches the Low Cam and platform.
CarolineB captured this snapshot of 747 on the Falls Low Cam View (old River Watch cam). Scooch captured this snapshot of 747 and added the comment "Excellence is not a skill. It's an attitude....:" (p 01/22/2020 01:30 ).
Lani H's video of 747 and an unidentified boar (68 Maybe?). 747 was unsuccessful at displacing this unidentified boar from the jacuzzi.:
747 video by Casper Trout.:
2018.07.15: 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
747 attacking 503 Cubadult in the office, Brooks Falls Low Cam view video by Lani H.:
2018.07.26: Flyer 7474 captured video of a confrontation between 856 and 747 on 7/26/2018. 856 moves 747 out of the jacuzzi (watch 856 jaw popping). Not content to fish the jacuzzi and eat his fish, 856 chases 747 when he tries to leave.
Cruiser captured a photo and added special effects from the same incident.
_and_856_(right)_July_26,_2018_snapshot_by_Cruiser.jpg "747 (left) and 856 (right) July 26, 2018 snapshot by Cruiser.jpg (336 KB)")
2018.07.29: Andrew Wells (Teton Mountain Living) photographed 747 0n 7/29/2018 and 7/30/2018 during a visit to Brooks Camp.
2018.07.30: 747 boots 801 out of the far pool. 747 used a shuffle and a head snap. Video by Lani H.:
August 2018:[]
2018.08.01: 747 charges 128 Grazer video by Lani H.:
2018.08.08: Shel shared her observations of 755 ScareD Bear on this 8/8/2018 Explore Recorder video. "755 Scare D Bear often appears to stand up for himself when needed, but seems to try to avoid trouble when possible. Near 18:50, 755 Scare D Bear appears to intentionally drop his fish when he sees 747 moving closer to him. 'Scare D Bear to 747: You can have my fish, please don't come after me.' Left to right at 18:30 - 755 Scare D Bear, 747, 801."
2018.08.12: 747 rejects a fish video by mckate:
2018.08.22: 747 and 503 Cubadult in far pool video by Birgitt:
2018.08.28: 854 Divot displaces 747 video by mckate:
2018.08.31: 747 NPS photo used for 2018 Fat Bear Week contest in KNP&P's October 6, 2018 12:00 Facebook post
On April 18, 2019 cam viewer Scooch created this paraphrase of an Ogden Nash poem for the above August 31, 2018 NPS photo of 747.:
Behold the ursus-potamus!
We laugh at how he looks to us
And yet in moments dank and grim
I wonder how we look to him.
Peace, peace thou ursus-potamus
We really look all right to us
As you, no doubt, delight the eye
Of other ursus-potami.
September 2018:[]
2018.09.04: 747 spooks 854 Divot's newly independent subadult video by Melissa Freels. "One of the 854 subs starts to head across the bridge and then flees at something s/he sees. Eventually, the massive 747 lumbers into view.":
2018.09.08: KNP&P's September 8, 2018 tweet with NPS photo of 747 (near) and 480 Otis (far).: "We're entering the last few weeks of weight gain before Fat Bear Week commences. Here's a look at 747 (foreground) and 480 (background). Which bear seems to have gained the most weight so far this season?"
2018.09.10: 747 (largest bear sitting in the far pool), 480 Otis (licking the rock in the far pool), 856 (is the bear that catches the fish), and 634 Popeye (in the office) video by Birgitt:
2018.09.12: 747 rejects a fish video by mckate:
2018.09.14 - 2018.09.17: Park visitor and cam viewer, Ratna Narayan captured this photograph of 747 (above the falls, left) with 856 (below the falls, right). Ratna also captured these photographs of 747 (photograph #1 , #2 & #3 ). Ratna also captured this photograph of 747. Ratna also captured these photographs (#1 , #2 & #3 ) of 747 (left, above the falls) with 856 (right, below the falls). Ratna also shared these photographs (#1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 , #6 , #7 & #8 ) of 747. Ratna also shared these photos (#1 & #2 ) of 747. Ratna shared this photo of 747. Ratna captured this photograph of 747 (p 01/21/2020 20:31 ). Ratna also captured these photographs (#1 , #2 & #3 ) of 747 (p 01/22/2020 20:54 ). Ratna :captured this photograph of 747 (p 01/22/2020 10:50 ).
Please request Ratna Narayan's permission prior to using her photographs!
2018.09.15: Ratna Narayan captured these photographs (#1 & #2 ) of 747 on September 15, 2018 (p 01/22/2020 08:29 ). Ratna captured these photographs of 747 (near) (#1 , #2 & #3 ) (p 01/22/2020 08:28 ). Ratna also captured these photographs (#1 , #2 & #3 ) of 747 (left) with 856 (right) on September 15, 2018 (p 01/22/2020 08:27 ). Ratna also captured these photographs (#1 , #2 , #3 & #4 ) of 747 (p 01/22/2020 08:27 ).:
Please request Ratna Narayan's permission prior to using her photographs!
2018.09.21: 747, 856 and 480 Otis have words in the far pool video by Birgitt:
856 harasses 747 for good measure video by mckate.:
2018.09.25: 747 kind of sits on 68 video by tsaneda:
2018.09.27: 32 Chunk finds himself between 747 and 856 video by Lani H.:
747 negotiates log and 856 video by mckate.;
2019: Adult Male[]
2019 Season: []
2019.??.??: Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) created this 2019 season video of 747:
2019.??.??: Melissa Freels captured these photographs (#1 & #2 ) of 747 during the 2018 season (p 01/22/2020 19.29 ).:
Please request Melissa Freels' permission prior to using her photographs!
2019.??.??: Xander-Sage created this 747 2019 Fat Bear Contender poster (p 01/21/2020 17:07 ). Phillydude captured these 2019 season snapshots (#1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 - 747 on left with 480 Otis on right , #6 - 747 in background with 856 in foreground , #7 , #8 , #9 - 747 below falls with 128 Grazer on the lip , #10 , #11 , #12 , #13 , #14 & #15 ) of 747 (p 01/22/2020 00:44 ). Xander-Sage created this 2019 gif of 747 (p 01/21/2020 16:32 ).:
2019.??.??: Park visitor Jen Hall captured video of 747 cowboy walking and marking a tree by the lower river platform in 2019.
2019.??.??: 32 Chunk splashes 856 and gets away with it while 747 sits nearby and enjoys the drama. 2019 instagram video by Steve Merlino.
June 2019:[]
2019.06.24: Truman Everts captured this photo of 747 on June 24, 2019 at 19:31 during his trip to Brooks Camp (p 10/22/2019 06:39 ). Truman also captured a 2nd photo of 747 (p 2/24/2020 06:37) . Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
2019.06.26: 747 June 26, 2019 NPS photo by Ranger Tammy Carmack KNP&P Flickr.
Bookmom captured these two snapshots (#1 & #2 ) of 747. The 1st one is when 747 was displacing 89 Backpack and chasing him from the river. The 2nd was when 747 was walking in front of the Brooks Falls Wildlife Viewing platform and shows some of his scars (p 01/22/2020 04:50 ).:
Lani H filmed 747 in the riffles area on 6/26/2019. 747 is best seen starting at 2:55.
2019.06.27: 747 (left) faceoff with 856 (right) NPS photograph by 2019 Katmai Conservancy Ranger Naomi Boak (p 01/22/2020 03:21 ).:
2019.06.28: Melissa Freels shared this June 28, 2019 photograph of 747 in the evening light from her trip to Brooks Camp.:
Please request Melissa Freels' permission prior to using her photographs!
2019.06.30: Mike Fitz shared his 6/30/2019 photo of 747 on 6/24/2020. Mike commented: "In case you aren't familiar with bear 747 (who is in the jacuzzi on the falls cam right now), he is an absolute giant. Bears on Kodiak and the Alaska Peninsula are famous for their size and 747 ranks among the largest brown bears on Earth. Adult males in Katmai average 700-900 lbs in mid summer. 747, however, tips the scales on the heavy side of that. It's no exaggeration to estimate his weight at 900-1000 lbs right now. Last fall, his weight was estimated at an astounding 1,400 lbs. He is a true giant among bears. Photo of 747 on June 30, 2019."
Please request Mike Fitz's permission prior to using his photographs!
July 2019:[]
2019.07.02: 747-68 Bear Encounter video by Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA). Steve included what happened before the fight. "747 kicks 83 out of the J twice, and then goes over to confront 68 over by the far wall. This time when the fight was on in the J for the first time I noticed that 909 was fishing the lip and ignored the whole thing, and even caught a salmon during the middle of the battle. And I also noticed as per usual there was 503 being the Looky Lou watching the fight and taking notes.":
747 displaces who (68 ? or 801 ?) out of the far pool video by Birgitt.:
747 is challenged for his fishing spot in the jacuzzi by an unidentified boar (68 maybe?). Mike Fitz, Resident Naturalist with Explore.org was doing a play-by-play from the Brooks Falls Wildlife Viewing Platform at the time of this fight between the two large boars. The narration by Mike starts at 28:14. Video by Brenda D of the complete play-by-play with Mike Fitz, Resident Naturalist with Explore.org. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
Mike Fitz, Resident Naturalist with Explore.org, discusses the fight between 747 and 68 in a July 3, 2019 Explore Blog, A Fight for Dominance. The blog includes a video and photos.
The July 5, 2019 Explore Bearcam Week in Review discusses the fight between 68 and 747.
Cam viewer and Brooks Camp visitor Truman Everts was on the Brooks Falls platform on 7/2/2019 and witnessed the 68/747 fight firsthand. Truman shared a number of photos and comments about the battle on 5/13/2020. Share and photo #1. Share and photo #2. Share and photo #3. Share and photo #4. Share and photo #5. Share and photo #6. Share and photo #7.
Truman Everts comments with each photo: Photo 1. "Not a crisp, great shot...but it's 68, just about 3 minutes before his 7/2/19 confrontation...kind of telegraphing his mood. re. 747. That diagonal mark between the eyes makes ID relativelyeasy." Photo 2. "This one probably should've been the first post. 68 (top) is advancing and huffing his cheeks...it's his challenge." Photo 3. "Since it's "68 Day" well, this is probably the best look at his face during this serious confrontation." Photo 4. "Surely the 68/747 face off of July 2, 2019 has been posted...here's what it looked like from the first row..." Photo 5. "No one knew who this bear--who was getting the better of 747--was...or how far he'd go when he had 747 down..." Photo 6. "Very hard to watch in the moment...but now--knowing no one got badly hurt--it doesn't bother me as much..." Photo 7. 68's face wasn't real visible for most of the fight...but the contortions revealed many fresh wounds."
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
_and_747_(near)_pre-fight_July_2,_2019_photo_by_Truman_Everts.jpg "68 (far) and 747 (near) pre-fight July 2, 2019 photo by Truman Everts.jpg (674 KB)")
_and_747_(near)_fight_on_July_2,_2019_photo_by_Truman_Everts.jpg "68 (far) and 747 (near) fight on July 2, 2019 photo by Truman Everts.jpg (590 KB)")
_and_68_(right)_fight_on_July_2,_2019_photo_by_Truman_Everts_.02.jpg "747 (left) and 68 (right) fight on July 2, 2019 photo by Truman Everts .02.jpg (601 KB)")
_and_68_(right)_fight_on_July_2,_2019_photo_by_Truman_Everts_.03_.jpg "747 (left) and 68 (right) fight on July 2, 2019 photo by Truman Everts .03 .jpg (521 KB)")
There are also these cam viewer videos of just the altercation between 747 and another large boar (early season 68 maybe?):
Video by Lee Block:
Video by Ratna:
Video by Birgitt:
Video by Lani H.:
2019.07.04: 856 chases 747 up the hill on the North side of the river video by Ratna Narayan.:
2019.07.06: Cruiser created this gif of 747 cowboy walking (p 01/22/2020 11:17 ).:
KNP volunteer Stacey shared this 7/6/2019 story of 856 and 747 on 2/21/2021.
One more 856 story:
It was July 2019 (I think), around 6 p.m.
I'd been volunteering on the Brooks Falls platform, and had stayed after my shift to watch the bears.
The platform was unusually empty; it was the rare quiet hour between the daytime crowd and the nighttime crowd when most visitors had left to get dinner.
So it was me and a younger couple on the platform, watching the bears.
856 and 747 were fishing at the falls, and there was a young female bear fishing in the riffles.
747 decided to go down to the riffles to say hello to the female. And suddenly, 856 decided he was interested in her, too.
The poor female (I didn't recognize her, but she seemed very young) made a quick getaway.
747 decided to follow -- until 856 decided he wasn't happy about that, and started pursuing 747.
From the Riffles, 747 (followed by 856) moved up toward the falls. Then the two boars marched toward the BF platform (where the couple and I stood watching, agape).
They went up to our left, toward the fish ladder, then UP THE HILL behind the platform, so that they stood at eye level to us: 856 following 747, not running, but in deliberate pursuit, sending a message.
Poor 747 moved behind the platform and into the woods on the right side of the platform (where BF low sometimes looks backward into the woods).
We saw 747 emerge into the riffles, 856 still walking deliberately behind.
They repeated their circle of the BF platform -- once again standing eye level to us, just a few yards away.
I have never been so transfixed.
Eventually, the two bears disappeared into the woods by the Riffles.
At that point, the three of us started breathing again.
We felt like we had witnessed the most incredible bear activity of the day -- and only the three of us had seen it.
At the end of this, the couple needed to get back to the lodge for dinner -- but we were well aware that the two bears had disappeared into the woods near the riffles, and we really didn't want to encounter them on the Brooks Falls Trail!
So we hung out for a little bit, giving the bears time to disperse, then walked back down the BF Trail together, talking loudly all the way so that the bears knew we were there.
And guess what: We DID encounter a bear on the trail! But it was the female that they'd initially been interested in -- not the two males.
An exciting -- and breathtaking -- display of dominance. We felt so privileged to have experienced this.
On 2/21/2021 scooch replied to Stacey's story: "Hi Stacey! That incident that you described may be part of these two gifs that I recorded on July 6, 2019. The first gif shows 747, right after he had exited the river by the BF platform, looking back to see if 856 was still following him, then moving on up the path. The next gif, taken a few seconds later, shows 856 in quick pursuit of 747." Gif #1 (747) and gif #2 (856).
747 chases 89 Backpack across the lip of the falls, 402 and yearlings scatter video by Lani H.:
747 helps himself to leftovers video by mckate. 747 siezes the opportunity to consume some salmon that another / others bears had highgraded and left the salmon flesh behind on the lip. 128 Grazer is the bear that was last in closest proximity to the highgraded salmon prior to 747 standing up to claim them. :
747 shows his displeasure with 402 fishing the lip above him in the jacuzzi slow motion video by Ratna Narayan.:
2019.07.07: Cam watcher and Brooks Camp visitor Olatz Azcona Munárriz (aka Olatz) shared two photos and a story about 83 Wayne Brother and his interaction with 747, #1 and #2.
"Salmon stayed in the cooler waters of Naknek Lake and stopped jumping the falls the afternoon of July 7, 2019. Yet, the bears still didn´t know they were not going to find dinner in Brooks River that day and, to my luck and delight, the most part of the Big Boys showed up at the falls that evening.
83 Wayne Brother was one of them. He entered the river near the riffles area and walked slowly toward the falls. 32 Chunk in the Jacuzzi, 755 Scare D Bear in the far pool and 747 on the conveyor belt were the bears hanging out at the falls when he approached.
He stood by the “hole” for a few seconds, but as soon as 747 saw him, the bear of colossal proportions decided to remind 83 Wayne Brother he was the top bear at the falls while 856 was not around.
They both exchanged some harsh words, and when 747 felt it was enough, he turned around and left. 83 Wayne Brother sat and stared at 747 wondering what he had done to deserve that. After a few seconds, he decided it was better to find dinner somewhere else." Pictures taken on July 7, 2019
Olatz Azcona Munárriz shared six additional 7/7/2019 photos of 747 0n 4/3/2022, #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 and #6. "747 was the only boar I saw catching a couple of salmon at the falls during my first evening in Brooks River on July 7, 2019.
He was not so lucky two days later, on July 9, when he also spent some time at the falls while I stood on the platform. That evening, he only got harsh words and a display of dominance on the island from 856, the top bear in Brooks River that year."
Please request Olatz Azcona Munárriz's permission prior to using their photographs!
_and_83_Wayne_Brother_(right)_July_7,_2019_photo_by_Olatz_Azcona_Mun%C3%A1rriz_(aka_Olatz)_.01_.jpg "747 (left) and 83 Wayne Brother (right) July 7, 2019 photo by Olatz Azcona Munárriz (aka Olatz) .01 .jpg (5.51 MB)")
_and_83_Wayne_Brother_(far)_July_7,_2019_photo_by_Olatz_Azcona_Mun%C3%A1rriz_(aka_Olatz_.02_.jpg "747 (near) and 83 Wayne Brother (far) July 7, 2019 photo by Olatz Azcona Munárriz (aka Olatz .02 .jpg (4.23 MB)")
BearLady shared this artwork that she created from a July 7, 2019 photograph of 747 (p 01/23/2020 09:48 ).:
854 displaces 747 again video by mckate. 854 Divot and 747 continue their discussions about who gets that prime fishing spot. He initially displaced her, but she triumphs. That he thought she smelled nice probably helped. In the back 480 refuses 128's entrance.:
2019.07.07 - 2019.07.20 (Between July 7, 2019 & July 20, 2019): Bearcam chatter and KNP&P volunteer, Stacey had a very close interaction with 747 during her time at Brooks Camp the 2nd or 3rd week of July, 2019. It involved 2 subadults on the trail who quickly run when they see 747 approaching. Stacey's calm demeanor and communication with other Rangers on the radio can be seen in the 2 videos posted. On 1/22/2020 at 05:18 Stacey shared her experience while assisting two visitors on the Brooks Falls trail. Park visitor Sunion81 filmed the 2 videos. In Instagram video #1, 2 subadults (901 and possibly 821 or his sister 831) are walking on the trail, sense 747's approach and quickly run forward. In video #2, 747 comes lumbering by at a normal pace, probably only interested in getting to the falls to fish.
"STORY
Mazey posted a video yesterday from my time volunteering at Brooks in July. And that led me to a second video that was posted this morning.
Here's the story behind those videos.
It was the second or third week of July 2019 -- a Wednesday, I think -- and on this day I was volunteering on the Brooks Falls platform.
It was early in the morning -- around 8 or 9 a.m. AK time -- and I was the first person assigned to the BF platform shift.
I'd arrived at the platform, dropped off my gear, and then walked back to the Falls Trail for my first assignment -- a 90-minute "rove" on the Falls Trail. (A rove is when you walk around an area -- assisting guests, answering questions, and just generally being visible.)
As I exited the platform to the Brooks Falls trail, I saw two guests -- I'll call them Juan and Maria -- smiling, and walking briskly up the trail in my direction. From Spain, they were halfway through their three-day stay at Brooks Camp, and they were excited to be among the first viewers on the platform in the a.m.
We recognized each other (I'd met them the day before), and we exchanged friendly greetings.
And suddenly, I heard the sound of running bears behind me.
I looked over my shoulder, and saw two subadults running down the hill. They skidded to a halt, and started play fighting right in front of the BF gate!
Juan immediately reached for his camera, as I told the couple we needed to move quickly off the trail. We stepped into the woods off the trail where we'd met, about 20 yards away from the play fighting bears.
This was NOT a situation I wanted to be in! I'd encountered bears on the trail before -- single bears, subadult bears, moms with cubs-- but I'd never been that close to a pair of play fighting subadults before.
As Juan filmed the bears, I explained what was happening -- that these young bears (the teenagers of the bear world) were play fighting with each other -- and asked the guests to move as far back on the trail as they could, since the bears were paying attention to each other, and not to us. I was concerned that at some point, the play fighting would stop and the bears would run down the trail, knocking down anyone who happened to be in their way.
And then, suddenly, a new development:
"The situation has changed," I said to Juan and Maria. "I see a big bear -- Bear 747 -- walking toward the gate from the river. These two subadults don't know he's there yet. But when they see him -- or smell him -- they're going to run. So let's push even further back into the forest if we can."
Still filming, Juan and Maria moved further back into the forest, away from the trail.
At that point, someone called out from down the trail, maybe 20 yards further away from the gate than us. It was a ranger -- hooray! She'd heard me talking to Juan and Maria, and she wanted me to know that she could hear me, even though we couldn't see each other.
"You're doing great," she said. "Just keeping talking, and have your bear spray ready."
"I don't have bear spray," I sighed.
As I watched 747 walk slowly toward the gate -- and the playing bears -- I reminded Juan and Maria of what we'd learned in bear school. "Let's keep talking," I said. "I know you're from Spain, and you can speak Spanish if you want to. I'm pretty sure these bears speak Spanish."
So in the background of the first video, you can hear me narrating -- partly to keep calm, partly so the bears would know where we were, and partly so that the ranger down the trail would know what was happening. And you can hear Juan and Maria speaking Spanish, too.
Once the play fighting subadults saw 747, they left the gate and starting heading down the trail in front of us -- walking at first, and then running (as I thought they might) to get away from 747.
But things weren't over yet! Once a bear walks past, a visitor's first instinct is often to hurry out of the woods and back onto the trail. But that was NOT a good option here, especially since I had a hunch that 747 would follow the less dominant bears down the trail.
So we waited in the woods -- still talking -- until Bear 747 went past. And that's what you see in the second video.
Once the ranger advised that 747 was 50 yards down the trail, we exited the woods, checked our surroundings, met up with the ranger, and walked together toward the BF gate.
It was an exciting beginning to an eventful day. As I recall, there were, at one point, more than a dozen bears on the trail that day -- subadults, moms with cubs, 747, etc. They caused multiple bear jams and kept the rangers busy.
I'm grateful to Juan and Maria for paying attention in bear school. And grateful, too, for the ranger, who managed things from down the trail.
It's not a situation I wanted to be in, but I'll remember it for a long time -- not just because of the bears, but also because of the people involved.
Here are the videos:
1: Click here to view the video
2: Click here to view the video "
Sunion81 shared this information with video #2 on their instagram: "The veteran and dominant bear 747 was approaching us while we waited hidden a few yards away. For some seconds our breathing accelerated and we wanted to be transparent ..... finally 747 passed by our side and walked away"
Cam viewer Cruiser commented: "Thanks Stacey for giving us the "you are there" feeling. What a rush it must be! I noticed bear spray was on sale at Walmart in the clearance section for $30 a couple of nights ago. Have no reason to buy any but it was tempting!"
Stacey replied (p 01/22/2020 09:28 ): "A rush indeed -- but not actually the kind of thing I enjoy! Quiet mornings on the LR platform are more my speed..."
2019 Katmai Conservancy Ranger, Naomi Boak commented (p 01/22/2020 05:59 ).: "Thanks for this compelling story. A good lesson in bear and people management in July. Was this the time when the ranger was trapped by 747 and the subs and had to use her bear spray?"
Phillydude replied to Naomi (p 01/22/2020 06:25 ): "Did the Ranger spray the Subs or 747? - I can only imagine 747's reaction if it was him."
2019 Katmai Conservancy Ranger Naomi Boak replied to Phillydude (p 01/22/2020 06:47 ): "Bear spray was used. It was a very dangerous situation and had the ranger not been as experienced and agile, I think there would have been a very different ending. I just don't know if it were the same moment that Stacey describes in her post."
Phillydude replied to Naomi (p 01/22/2020 07:00 ): "Glad it ended well and everyone and every bear was Ok, gotta feel bad for 747 though, on top of everything else that happened to him last season he got Bear sprayed too?"
2019 Katmai Conservancy Ranger Naomi Boak replied to Phillydude (p 01/22/2020 07:22 ): "I don't recall who got sprayed. If this is the same instance that Stacey is recalling, perhaps she knows."
Stacey replied to Phillydude (p 01/22/2020 09:23 ): "747 was not sprayed in this encounter, but one of the subs was."
NWBearLove92 captured these photographs (#1 & #2 ) of 854 Divot (left) with 747 (right) on July 7, 2019 (p 03/04/2020 07:04 ). NWBearLove shared this 7/7/2019 photo of 747 on 4/25/2020. NWBearLove92 shared this 7/7/2019 photo of 480 Otis (left) and 747 (right) on 6/18/2020. "480 Otis telling 747 to get his bald butt out of the office."
Please request NWBearLove92's permission prior to using any of their photographs!
_and_747_(right)_July_7,_2019_photo_by_NWBearLove92.jpg "480 Otis (left) and 747 (right) July 7, 2019 photo by NWBearLove92.jpg (4.02 MB)")
Park visitor Kyle Jones also captured a photo of 854 Divot (left) with 747 (right), 7/7/2019.
2019.07.09 - 2019.07.12: Lori Hocking (aka Lovethebears1) captured these photographs (#1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 , #6 , #7 & #8 ) of 747 during her trip to Brooks Camp and shared them in the bearcam comments (p 01/22/2020 09:28 )
Please request Lori's (aka Lovethebears1) permission prior to using her photographs!
2019.07.09: Olatz Azcona Munárriz shared six 7/9/2019 photos of 747 on 4/3/2022, #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 with 856 and #6. "747 was the only boar I saw catching a couple of salmon at the falls during my first evening in Brooks River on July 7, 2019.
He was not so lucky two days later, on July 9, when he also spent some time at the falls while I stood on the platform. That evening, he only got harsh words and a display of dominance on the island from 856, the top bear in Brooks River that year."
Olatz Azcona Munárriz shared a 7/7/2019 photo of 755 Scare D Bear (left) and 747 (right). "755 Scare D Bear showed up at the falls during my first evening in Brooks Camp on July 7, 2019. He spent some time fishing in the far pool, but 32 Chunk arrived and displaced him. Then, he decided to move toward the conveyor belt, but 747 entered the river and ended up having words with him above the falls. Good Scare D Bear left the falls for a while and when he returned, he stood against the wall for a few minutes before trying the far pool again. I am really happy for having had the chance to spend some time with him that day. These pictures are now precious memories of him. A gentle soul that is greatly missed."
Please request Olatz Azcona Munárriz's permission prior to using their photographs!
_and_856_(near)_July_9,_2019_photo_by_Olatz_Azcona_Mun%C3%A1rriz_.01.jpg "747 (far) and 856 (near) July 9, 2019 photo by Olatz Azcona Munárriz .01.jpg (2.19 MB)")
_and_747_(right)_July_7,_2019_photo_by_Olatz_Azcona_Mun%C3%A1rriz_.02.jpg "755 Scare D Bear (left) and 747 (right) July 7, 2019 photo by Olatz Azcona Munárriz .02.jpg (3.24 MB)")
2019.07.10: 2019 Katmai Conservancy Ranger Naomi Boak captured this NPS photo of 747 resting under the Brooks Falls Wildlife Viewing Platform (p 01/22/2020 03:21 ).:
Permission to use her NPS photos posted on the bearcam comments
NWBearLove92 shared this 7/10/2019 photo of 747 on 6/18/2020.
Please request NWBearLove92's permission prior to using any of their photographs!
Bear cam chatter Lori Hocking (aka Lovethebears) visited Brooks Camp from 7/10-7/12/2019. She captured multiple photos of 747 during that time, photos #1, #2, #3, #4, #5,#6, #7, #8, #9, #10, #11, #12, #13 and #14. 747's characteristic early season shed pattern is especially noted in photo #3.
2019.07.11: Xander-Sage captured these snapshots (collage) of 747 (p 01/21/2020 17:20 ).:
747 video "Your moment of zen" by mckate.:
747 naps on the island video by Lani H.:
NWBearLove shared 7/11/2019 photos of 747 in chat (Part 1) on 5/13/2020, #1 and #2. "Part 1: "747 and 68. On 7/11/19 I arrived at the falls and saw 747 resting on the island and looking a little sad. I soon realized why. 68 was in the office and 747 was keeping a close eye on his movements." NWBearLove92 shared a 7/11/2019 photo of 747 in chat on 5/13/2020. Part 2: "747 and 68 on 7/11/19. It was a week after their big fight and 747 did not seem his normal confident boar self. He was very distracted by 68’s presence. 68 did not seem to be effected. It will be interesting to see how this dynamic plays out this year."
Please request NWBearLove92's permission prior to using any of their photographs!
2019.07.12: 68 interaction with 747. Snapshots (#1 & #2 ) and gif created by tzusrule ,:
68 and 747 dust-up video by Casper Pike.:
Joni Tilley captured video of the 7/12/2019 fight between 68 and 747 in regular speed and slo mo.
2019.07.14: 747 snorkeling in the lower river video by Lani H.:
2019.07.15: In a 7/15/2019 video by mckate , 747 is seen stealing 775 Lefty's fish. 775 does not put up a fight, immediately catches another fish and takes it away to eat it.
2019.07.16: 747 naps then gets up for breakfast video by Lani H.:
2019.07.18: 503 Cubadult mating with 900, 747 finally notices then follows 900 around the falls video by Lani H.:
747 naps near 480 Otis video by Lani H.:
2019.07.25: 747 has words with 480 Otis video by Lani H.:
2019.07.26: 503 Cubadult and 900 mating, 747 interrupts video by Lani H.:
747 following 900 around the falls after interrupting 503 Cubadult & 900 mating video by Lani H.:
This July 26, 2019 video by Nancy B demonstrates in impacts a dominant boar, 747, can have on the other bears that are attempting to fish in the same river. 747 initially approaches 480 Otis to assert his dominance, however, 480 Otis stands his ground and does not yield space to 747. Then 747 approaches 128 Grazer on the lip. Then 747 moves to the far side of the river where he displaces 634 Popeye. When 747 climbs to the top of the falls on the far side of the river, 128 Grazer departs the lip on the near side of the falls. 747's movements around the river causes a domino effect in movement of the other bears.
2019 Katmai Conservancy Ranger Naomi Boak captured this July 26, 2019 NPS photo of 747 headling for the jacuzzi (p 01/22/2020 03:21 ).:
2019.07.27: 503 Cubadult and 68 play fighting above the falls before 747 breaks it up video by Lani H.:
2019.07.28: A cam viewer (unknown at this time) created this gif of 128 Grazer swatting 747 (p 01/21/2020 18:33 by KCanada ).:
128 Grazer gives 747 a smack down video by Lani H.:
2019.07.31: 747 clears the lip of Brooks Falls video by Lani H.:
August 2019:[]
2019.08.01: 747 takes a nap in the river video by Lani H.:
2019.08.03 - 2019.08.05: Kacko shared this photograph of 747 from her August 3-5, 2019 trip to Brooks Camp (01/22/2020 09:47 ). Goof_n shared this photograph of "Humphrey" the unidentified adult male with the distinctive hump (left) and 747 (right) (p 01/29/2020 18.26 ). Goof_n shared an 8/5/2019 photo of 747 (left) and 68 (right) on 3/8/2020. Goof_n also shared 2 photos (8/3-8/5/2019) of 747 on 3/8/2020, #1 and #2. Goof_n shared this 8/4/2019 photo of "over 2 tons of bear" on 5/6/2020. Pictured in the photo are 747 (left, near) 480 Otis (left, far) 634 Popeye (center) and 801 (right). Goof_n shared an additional 8/4/2019 photo of 747, 634 Popeye, 801 and 480 Otis (front to back) on 3/17/2021.
Please request Kacko & Goof_n's permission prior to using their photographs!
_and_68_(right)_August_5,_2019_photo_by_Kacko_and_Goof_n.jpg "747 (left) and 68 (right) August 5, 2019 photo by Kacko and Goof n.jpg (2.09 MB)")
_480_Otis_(left,_far)_634_Popeye_(center)_and_801_(right)_August_4,_2019_photo_by_Kacko_and_Goof_n.jpg "747 (left, near) 480 Otis (left, far) 634 Popeye (center) and 801 (right) August 4, 2019 photo by Kacko and Goof n.jpg (1.78 MB)")
_August_4,_2019_photo_by_Kacko_and_Goof_n.jpg "747, 634 Popeye, 801 and 480 Otis (front to back) August 4, 2019 photo by Kacko and Goof n.jpg (1.08 MB)")
2019.08.06: 747 and 68 have a kerfuffle video by Lani H.:
2019.08.07: 747 exchanges pleasantries with 854 Divot video by mckate.:
2019.08.07-08.12: Kam shared this 8/7-8/12/2019 close-up photo of 747 on 6/17/2020.
Please request Kam's permission prior to using their photographs!
2019.08.09: On 8/9/2019, 747 is seen laying down and resting in the river. It appears that he is hoping to catch fish scraps as they float by without any effort on his part, video by mckate.
2019.08.10: In this 8/10/2019 video by Cruiser, 747 can be seen digging a belly hole by the Brooks Falls island and then lays down to take a nap.
747 tries to dig a belly hole then takes a nap video by Lani H.:
Explore Live Nature Cams video (published August 16, 2019) of 747's epic nap on August 10, 2019:
The unidentified adult male with the distinctive hump (aka "Humphrey" / "Hump Bear") walks near the Brooks Falls wildlife viewing platform and gets chased off by 747 video by Lani H.:
Twice on 8/10/2019, 469 approached 747 in hopes of possibly pirating a fish. 469 settled for 747's scraps. Video #1 and video #2 by Lani H.
2019.08.11: 2019 Katmai Conservancy Ranger Naomi Boak captured this NPS photo of 747 chewing on the tree on the island. Katmai Conservancy Ranger Naomi also captured this NPS photo of 747 asleep on the island. (both p 01/22/2020 03:21 ):
747, 480 Otis and 469 "Patches"/"Digger" video by Ratna.:
2019.08.14: 909 and 747 in Birgitt's The Little Lady and the Big Galoot video .:
747 does like to pester 480 Otis , on this day he was feeling bored and repeatedly went over to the far pool and splashed Otis with cannonballs, Otis finally had enough and they had a kerfuffle, but they paused to sit together and look at the mess 856 had made of Otis' Office. 747 and 480 Otis have words in the office video by Lani H.:
In this video by Lani H 747 comes over to splash Otis one last time before heading up the far hill.:
747 drenches 480 Otis video by mckate.:
2019.08.15: "Hump" bear (aka "Humphrey" bluff charges 747 video by Lani H.:
747 backs "hump" bear (aka "Humphrey") out of the office video by Lani H.:
2019.08.18: 747 gif created by Scooch (p 12/18/19 01:29 ).:
(Wiki would not allow gif to be loaded (false message) 01/04/2020 LTC)
2019.08.19: 747 grazes while cowboy walking video by mckate.:
2019.08.20: 747 catches a nice fish video by mckate.:
747 watches 812 fish video by mckate.:
2019.08.24: 747 and 821 video by Ratna.:
2019.08.25: 747 takes a stroll around the falls video by Lani H.:
A darn solid 747 video by Ratna Narayan.:
2019.08.26: 747 subtly signals his desire for the jacuzzi where 856 is fishing video by mckate.:
2019.08.28: Meet Bear 747 video by Mike Fitz, Resident Naturalist with Explore.org.:
755 Scare D. Bear slips in the back door video by mckate. 755 climbs down from above the falls into the office with 747 sitting in the far pool.:
2019.08.29: In this 8/29/2019 video by Lani H 747 is observed resting at the top of the falls and then climbs down over the boulders to the far pool.
747 climbs lip to make a point video by mckate. 854 Divot bowed her head, but otherwise didn't seem too terribly intimated by this stunt.:
747 and 854 Divot confrontation on the lip video by Birgitt.:
Bookmom captured this snapshot of 747 and 854 Divot on the lip (p 01/22/2020 04:53 ).:
2019.08.30: 812 and 747 video by Ratna Narayan.:
September 2019:[]
2019.09.??: 747 September 2019 NPS photo 2021 Bears of Brooks River book page 73
2019.09.01: 747 and 856 have words video by Lani H.:
856 catches 747 leaving work early video by mckate.:
2019.09.03: Bear 747 cowboy walks and marks the island. The video description includes this information: "747 did this right after attacking 755 ScareD Bear." -- video by Felicia
856 marks the island for the benefit of 747 video by Felicia. The video description includes this additional information: 856 "did this as a follow-up to 747 marking the island".:
747 bites 755 Scare D Bear video by Ratna Narayan.:
2019.09.05: 856 disrupts 747's nap video by mckate.:
128 Grazer made a late season, late night visit to the Falls, she got chased off the lip by 747 and then entered the far pool where she got bluff charged by 856, 68 then responded to that by bluff charging 856 video by Lani H.:
Xander-Sage created this snapshot collage of 128 Grazer and 747 (p 01/21/2020 17:28 ).:
Xander-Sage created this artwork inspired by a September 5, 2019 snapshot of 747 (p 01/21/2020 19:46 ).:
2019.09.06: 747 takes a nap on the island video by Lani H.:
2019.09.08: Cam viewer and Brooks Camp visitor Lisa Robertson (aka Larinor) shared a 9/8/2019 photo of 856 on 1/30/2022. "We know that 747 is the largest bear at Brooks Falls, but 856 looked pretty close to the same size on 9/8/19. Here they are having a few words with each other. 856 is on the left. P.S. I love 747's button tail :) Photo was taken by me." Lisa Robertson (aka Larinor) shared a 9/8/2019 photo of 747 on 4/3/2022. "747 stops briefly to take a look to see who needs shooing away from the lip. In this instance it was 907, who skedaddled quickly when he saw 747 headed his way. Photo was taken by me from the falls platform on 9/8/19."
Please request Lisa Robertson's (aka Larinor) permission prior to using her photographs!
_and_747_(right)_September_8,_2019_photo_by_%C2%A9Lisa_Robertson_(aka_Larinor).jpg "856 (left) and 747 (right) September 8, 2019 photo by ©Lisa Robertson (aka Larinor).jpg (1.31 MB)")
_.01.jpg "747 September 8, 2019 photo by Lisa Robertson (aka Larinor) .01.jpg (822 KB)")
812 makes 747 nervous video by mckate.:
2019.09.10: Carrie59 shared this 9/10/2019 photo of 747 on 4/3/2022.
Please request carrie59's permission prior to using her photographs!
2019.09.11: 151 Walker, 812 & 747's interaction on top of the falls slow motion video by Ratna Narayan (9/11/2019 not 9/12/2019, published date 09/11/2019).:
812 stuck between 747 and falling off the falls video by Lani H.:
Brooks Camp visitor Costel Necula captured video of the 747/812 incident, seen from 13:01-14:12. What a brave young boar 812 was! 747 is also seen from 2:02-2:14, 4:03-4:25 and 14:14-14:29.
Alaska Bears,Katmai Brooks Camp,September 2019
747 attempts to force 812 off the falls, 9/11/2019 video by Costel Necula
Brooks Camp visitor and cam viewer Lisa Robertson (aka Larinor) shared four 9/11/2019 photos of the 812/747 incident on 3/26/2023, #1, #2, #3 and #4. "This was an interesting and nail-biting display of dominance that occurred on 9/11/19 (all photos were taken by me from the platform). 151 Walker was letting 812 know that he was the big boar on the lip. But wait... who is that back there in the shadows? Uh. Guys. Look behind you. 151 Walker sees 747 headed their way and high tails it out of there. 812 wasn't quite as lucky. He got backed over the lip by 747. 812 held on though, and after a tense minute or two (it felt much longer than that, and the platform was very quiet as everyone held their breath), he finally pulled himself back up and made his escape."
Please request Lisa Robertson's (aka Larinor) permission prior to using her photographs!
_and_812_(right)_September_11,_2019_photo_by_Lisa_Robertson_(aka_Larinor)_.01.jpg "151 Walker (left) and 812 (right) September 11, 2019 photo by Lisa Robertson (aka Larinor) .01.jpg (902 KB)")
_September_11,_2019_photo_by_Lisa_Robertson_(aka_Larinor)_.01.jpg "747, 151 Walker and 812 (left to right) September 11, 2019 photo by Lisa Robertson (aka Larinor) .01.jpg (962 KB)")
_September_11,_2019_photo_by_Lisa_Robertson_(aka_Larinor)_.01.jpg "151 Walker, 747 and 812 (left to right) September 11, 2019 photo by Lisa Robertson (aka Larinor) .01.jpg (1.02 MB)")
_and_812_(right)_September_11,_2019_photo_by_Lisa_Robertson_(aka_Larinor).jpg "747 (left) and 812 (right) September 11, 2019 photo by Lisa Robertson (aka Larinor).jpg (1.11 MB)")
T down shared this 9/11/2019 photo of 747 on 5/13/2020.
Please request TDown's permission prior to using their photographs!
2019.09.15: Scooch shared 2 photos of 747 in chat on 3/3/2020, photos #1 and #2. Both photos were taken on 9/15/2019. Scooch shared a 9/15/2019 photo of 480 Otis (left) and 747 (right) on 6/21/2020. "This photo was taken the day that 480 Otis returned from his summer vacay at Margot Creek. 747 wanted to displace him from his fishing spot but Otis wasn't about to move. We captured him telling 747 "I just walked 12 miles in a day and I'm tired. I'm not moving for you or anyone else so GET LOST!" When push comes to shove, the old guy has still got it! Well done, Otis."
Please request scooch's permission before using any of her photographs!
_and_747_(right)_September_15,_2019_photo_by_scooch_.jpg "480 Otis (left) and 747 (right) September 15, 2019 photo by scooch .jpg (2.23 MB)")
2019.09.16: 747 was scanned by the GIS team on September 16, 2019 : KNP&P's October 9, 2019 06:00 Facebook post : "We are ready to answer the age old question: Just how big can a Brooks bear be? Katmai’s GIS team made 3D scans of bear 747, estimating the jiggly giant tips the scales at an eye-popping 1408 lbs. His volume is 23.4 cubic feet, the size of a side by side refrigerator."
On October 9, 2019 at 16:52, KNP&P staff replied to a comment below the Facebook post : "We are working with Joel to publish an explanation of the scanning process and the results of all the bears scanned." (Pic #1 & Pic #2 )
Joel Cusick commented in the Facebook post thread on October 10, 2019 at 08:35 : "GIS rocks. I was the guy who scanned the bears. We used a Trimble TX8 at level 3 from the same platform where the bear cam is located. 9000-11000 point returns provided enough data to generate a surface model then we sliced the bear from nose to tail(virtually) in Trimble Real Works. Volume was calculated on 1/2 of the bear. Then doubled and multiplied by a ratio of 65% water density and 35%fat density.
747 was 23 cubic feet or 1408 lbs. In the 1.5 hours we were scanning only Otis, Walker, Chunk stood still long enough to get a good scan.
747 would fill the cargo area of a Chevrolet Cruz (24 ft3) or is equivalent to 15 airplane carry-on bags!!!"
Joel Cusick commented in reply to another users comment on October 16, 2019 at 19:20 :
The user's question to Joel: "Joel Cusick did the scan and weight calculations take into account hair length and the empty volume this represents?"
Joel Cusick's reply: "...hair was matted down due to moisture, so I think we got a good return around the bear, representing the hide. I tried my best to remove voids, but the perfect scan was impossible from one direction."
On October 11, 2019 Mike Fitz, Resident Naturalist with Explore.org wrote a blog: How Big are the Fat Bear Week Bears? (Chart only link )
(See details below under October 11, 2019)
2019.09.18: 2019 Katmai Conservancy Ranger Naomi Boak captured this NPS photo of 747 at the falls (p 01/22/2020 03:21 ).:
2019.09.25: 68 displaces 747 from the jacuzzi video by Lani H.:
October 2019:[]
2019.10.09: KNP&P's October 9, 2019 06:00 Facebook post : "We are ready to answer the age old question: Just how big can a Brooks bear be? Katmai’s GIS team made 3D scans of bear 747, estimating the jiggly giant tips the scales at an eye-popping 1408 lbs. His volume is 23.4 cubic feet, the size of a side by side refrigerator."
On October 9, 2019 at 16:52, KNP&P staff replied to a comment below the Facebook post : "We are working with Joel to publish an explanation of the scanning process and the results of all the bears scanned." (Pic #1 & Pic #2 )
Joel Cusick commented in the Facebook post thread on October 10, 2019 at 08:35 : "GIS rocks. I was the guy who scanned the bears. We used a Trimble TX8 at level 3 from the same platform where the bear cam is located. 9000-11000 point returns provided enough data to generate a surface model then we sliced the bear from nose to tail(virtually) in Trimble Real Works. Volume was calculated on 1/2 of the bear. Then doubled and multiplied by a ratio of 65% water density and 35%fat density.
747 was 23 cubic feet or 1408 lbs. In the 1.5 hours we were scanning only Otis, Walker, Chunk stood still long enough to get a good scan.
747 would fill the cargo area of a Chevrolet Cruz (24 ft3) or is equivalent to 15 airplane carry-on bags!!!"
Joel Cusick commented in reply to another users comment on October 16, 2019 at 19:20 :
The user's question to Joel: "Joel Cusick did the scan and weight calculations take into account hair length and the empty volume this represents?"
Joel Cusick's reply: "...hair was matted down due to moisture, so I think we got a good return around the bear, representing the hide. I tried my best to remove voids, but the perfect scan was impossible from one direction."
2019.10.11: How Big are the Fat Bear Week Bears? Explore.org blog:by Mike Fitz:
Bear Body Volume Weight Chart Only Link ~ 480 Otis Scan Image Link ~ 151 Walker Scan Images Link ~ 32 Chunk & 854 Divot Scan Images Link
2020: Adult Male[]
747 was included in the 2021 Bears of Brooks River book page 73.
January 2020:[]
2020.01.x??: Scanning the Roundest Bear professional survey magazine article by Claire Napier
2020 season:[]
2020.??.??: Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) created this 2020 season video of 747, "Bear 747 2020."
2020.??.??: Ranger Naomi Boak shared this photo of 747 early in the 2020 season. "Morning. I just watched 747 following a sow (?ID) on Naknek beach. Here is a picture of him."
Please request NSBoak's (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) permission prior to using her photographs!
.jpg "747 2020 NPS photo by Ranger Naomi Boak (aka NSBoak).jpg (616 KB)")
June 2020: []
2020.06.23: 747 made his debut at Brooks Falls on 6/23/2020. He entered from the platform side bank, entered the jacuzzi then went up the hill and marked a tree, video by Lani H. 747 appears to have some damage to his left ear and also seemed to have a slight limp.
Arlene Beech 6/23/2020 video of 747 marking a tree.
Erum Chad 6/23/2020 video.
Video by Cruiser, 6/23/2020.
6/23/2020 gif by Cruiser, 747 comes down the hill.
"Battle Scarred 747" video by Arlene Beech, 6/23/2020.
2020.06.24: FrogsOn created this gif of 747 checking his six (p 06/24/2020 16:14 )..:
DanteV2000 shared this 6/24/2020 gif of "747 dashboard bobblehead."
"Alone at the falls with 747", 6/24/2020 video by mckate.
2020.06.27: NSBoak (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) shared this 6/27/2020 photo of 747 on 3/5/2023.
Please request NSBoak's (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) permission prior to using her photographs!
_.01.jpg "747 June 27, 2020 photo by NSBoak (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) .01.jpg (227 KB)")
Cruiser's 6/27/2020 video of 747 entering the falls.
Cruiser shared this gif of 747 on 6/27/2020. "Moving some tonnage."
2020.06.29: NSBoak (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) shared this 6/29/2020 photo of 747 on 3/5/2023.
Please request NSBoak's (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) permission prior to using her photographs!
_.01.jpg "747 June 29, 2020 photo by NSBoak (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) .01.jpg (417 KB)")
2020.06.30: 747 following 482 Brett scares 909 and 812 off the lip, 6/30 2020 video by mckate.
July 2020:[]
2020.07.01: 747 is sweet on 482 Brett, 7/1/2020 video by Cruiser.
2020.07.04: 856 (right) displaces 747 (left) and 480 Otis (far left at 0:22), 7/4/2020 video by Naomi Boak (aka Ranger Naomi Boak).
856 Displaces 747 & 480 Otis
856 displaces 747 and 480 Otis, July 4, 2020 video by Naomi Boak (aka Ranger Naomi Boak)
Naomi Boak (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) recorded a 2nd 7/4/2020 video of 747 left and 856 right. "Nothing says dominance like a look and a nod from Bear 856."
A Little 856 Drive By 7 4 2020
856 (right) gives 747 (left) a look and a nod as he walks by, July 4, 2020 video by Naomi Boak (aka Ranger Naomi Boak)
2020.07.06: 747 has words with 83 Wayne Brother, 7/6/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.07.08: 402 gives 747 a kiss, 7/8/2020 video by mckate.
2020.07.09: 747 chases an unknown bear off the lip, 7/9/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.07.10: 482 Brett and 747 "share a romantic meal" as they continue to court, 7/10/2020 video by mckate.
2020.07.11: NSBoak (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) shared this 7/11/2020 photo of 482 Brett and 747 on 3/5/2023.
Please request NSBoak's (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) permission prior to using her photographs!
_and_747_(right)_July_11,_2020_photo_by_NSBoak_(aka_Ranger_Naomi_Boak)_.01.jpg "482 Brett (left) and 747 (right) July 11, 2020 photo by NSBoak (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) .01.jpg (360 KB)")
Cruiser's 7/11/2020 gif of 482 Brett and 747's "sprint to the finish" as they continue courting and eating on the lower river.
2020.07.13: Ajah created this gif of 747 walking on land in the lower river (p 07/14/2020 19:58 ):
2020.07.15: 747 tells 32 Chunk to stay away from his woman (482 Brett), 7/15/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.07.17: Cam watcher and Brooks Camp visitor Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) captured six 7/17/2020 photos of 747, #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 and #6. Lee also captured a 7/17/2020 interaction between 747 (left) and 856 (right) in three additional photos, #1, #2 and #3.
Please request Lee's (aka RiverPA ) permission prior to using her photographs !
_.01.jpg "747 July 17, 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .01.jpg (811 KB)")
_.02.jpg "747 July 17, 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .02.jpg (633 KB)")
_.03.jpg "747 July 17, 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .03.jpg (596 KB)")
_.04.jpg "747 July 17, 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .04.jpg (665 KB)")
_.05.jpg "747 July 17, 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .05.jpg (544 KB)")
_.06.jpg "747 July 17, 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .06.jpg (688 KB)")
_and_856_(right)_July_17._2020_photo_by_Lee_Pastewka_(aka_RiverPA)_.01.jpg "747 (left) and 856 (right) July 17. 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .01.jpg (768 KB)")
_and_856_(right)_July_17._2020_photo_by_Lee_Pastewka_(aka_RiverPA)_.02.jpg "747 (left) and 856 (right) July 17. 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .02.jpg (757 KB)")
_and_856_(right)_July_17._2020_photo_by_Lee_Pastewka_(aka_RiverPA)_.03.jpg "747 (left) and 856 (right) July 17. 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .03.jpg (719 KB)")
747 in the jacuzzi, 7/17/2020 video by Ratna Narayan.
2020.07.18: 856 Tells 747 to leave 480 Otis alone, 7/18/2020 video by mckate.
2020.07.19: 747 and 482 Brett snorkeling, 7/19/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.07.20: 284 and her 2 spring cubs on the gravel bar with 747 and 482 Brett snorkeling nearby, 7/20/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.07.22: 747 enters the falls from the far bank. 480 Otis (left) and 482 Brett look on, 7/22/2020 video by Rayna Narayan.
2020.07.24: 747 snorkeling on the lower river, 7/24/2020 video by Lani H. 2020 was a record breaking year for the salmon run. Many boars were seen feeding in the lower river in July. In addition, due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, there were few visitors to Brooks Camp which may have made boars more comfortable fishing the lower river in July.
2020.07.25: 747 snorkeling near the bridge, 7/25/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.07.26: 747 in the far pool, 7/26/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.07.27: 151 Walker outsmarts 747, 7/27/2020 video by mckate.
2020.07.28: 747 heading up valley road, 7/28/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.07.30: 83 Wayne Brother plays with 32 Chunk, 747 wants in, 7/30/2020 video by mckate.
August 2020:[]
2020.08.01: 747, 480 Otis and 32 Chunk at the falls, 8/1/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.08.02: 747 confronts and backs up 83 Wayne Brother in the lower river, 8/2/2020 video by flyer 7474.
2020.08.03: 910 gives up her dinner to 747, 8/3/2020 video by flyer 7474.
2020.08.05: 747 charges the lip as 910 approaches, 8/5/2020 video by flyer 7474.
2020.08.06: 747 was persuaded to go back up the hill on the far side of the falls by a sow with 2 very large cubs (39 family group?), video by Cruiser.:
Flyer 7474 captured this 8/6/2020 video of 32 Chunk taking off as 747 approaches.
2020.08.07: 747 has words with an unknown boar, 8/7/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.08.09: 747 sleeps on a rock, 8/9/2020 video by Ratna Narayan
128 Grazer fishes the lip with her 2 spring cubs, 8/9/2020 video by photobearsbry. 747 who does not like other bears fishing above him approaches 128 Grazer with her 2 cubs who run off screen. As soon as 128 checks on her cubs, she comes back and gives 747 a good swat.
Cruiser shared a 8/9/2020 gif of 128 Grazer swatting 747.
2020.08.10: The unknown diving bear surfaces right in front of 747 and then quickly backs up, 8/10/2020 video by flyer 7474.
2020.08.11: 747 surprised unknown bear that dives, 8/11/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.08.12: Mckate's 8/12/2020 video, 747 puts on a dominance display for 32 Chunk. "Is dominating from a sitting position a new behavior? I don't think I've seen that before."
2020.08.14: 747 chases 32 Chunk, 8/14/2020 video by Ratna Narayan.
2020 .08.15: 747 gets grazered by 128 Grazer in this 8/15/2020 video by mckate. "Did he really think he was going to clear 128 out of the far pool when she had her cubs were right there with her? He was sure quick to get on the other side of that rock. I wish the riffles cam had caught the action. It did show that one of the cubs ran up the trail and out of the way, but the other peeked around the corner to see all the action."
2020.08.16: 747 chases 32 Chunk up the falls, 8/16/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.08.17: Lani H 8/17/2020 video, 747 displaces 32 Chunk from the office, 18 moves in while 747 has words with 480 Otis.
747 displaces 32 Chunk from the office, 18 moves in while 747 has words with 480 Otis 8-17-2020-2
Video by Lani H
2020.08.18: 747 scares 821 off the lip, 8/18/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.08.19: Lani H 8/19/2020 video of 151 Walker on the lip, 747 in the far pool, subadult above the far pool.
2020.08.20: 747 is on the move as he clears 812 out of the jacuzzi and 821 off the lip, 8/20/2020 video by flyer 7474.
2020.08.21: What the heck was 747 doing? 8/21/2020 video by mckate. "856 runs 32 out of the office and 747 runs up to:
a) Join in on the fun? b) Tell 856 only he can pick on 32?"
2020.08.22: Ranger Naomi Boak shared a 8/22/2020 photo of 747 in chat on 8/24/2020.
Permission to use her NPS photos posted on the bearcam comments
.jpg "747 August 22, 2020 NPS photo by Ranger Naomi Boak (aka NSBoak).jpg (1.04 MB)")
747 comes down the far path, 8/22/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.08.23: 821 tells 812 to wait his turn, twice, 8/23/2020 video by mckate. "812 went up the fish ladder and pouted after the first exchange. He had kind of a hard day. If nothing else, maybe this showed 907 that he need not be so afraid of 812. I hope these boys get lots of fish tomorrow."
2020.08.24: The MASSIVE 747, 8/24/2020 video by Ratna Narayan.
2020.08.25: Mckate's 8/25/2020 video of 747 backing up 18. "I like the way Humphrey backs around in a circle. Most bears keep going in the direction of the riffles, but this leaves Humphrey close to where he began which is more."
2020.08.26: 18 enters the office while 747 is enjoying his catch, 8/26/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.08.27: Lani H 8/27/2020 video of 747 lookin' large.
2020.08.28: Photographer Mark Kostich shared three 8/28/2020 photos of 747 in chat, #1, #2 and #3. Mark asked for help with identification. "Hello my friends! I have another image that I need help with. This isn't that great of a photo, but it does depict a specific color variation. This image was taken August 28th of 2020. The bear appears almost "black" when compared to other bear. Any ideas who this is! Thank you very much in advance!"
Please request Mark Kostich's permission prior to using his photos!
Permission to post any photos he posts in chat on the Wiki, must say "copyright © Mark Kostich on the photo."
Flyer 4477's 8/28/2020 video "747. My Island." 747 marks the island.
2020.08.29: 747 demonstrates the Flehman response in this 8/29/2020 video by mckate. "Didn't help him find a fresh fish that time, but better luck with the next one!" Flehmen response is "a special way of smelling in which an animal curls back its upper lip and gathers scent in its mouth."
2020.08.30: 747 snorkeling and strolling along the lower river, 8/30/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.08.31: Flyer 7474's 8/31/2020 video, 747 walks under the Brooks Falls cam, poses and then exits.
September 2020:[]
2020.09.??: On 11/20/2020, Theresa Bielawski shared photos of 747 from her September 12-September 17, 2020 trip to Brooks Camp, #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 and #6. Theresa commented "May you all have a happy Thanksgiving and not come out on Friday looking like the 2020 Fat Bear Contest winner, 747! Pic from Sept 2020." Theresa Bielawski shared an additional September 2020 photo of 747 on 6/9/2021.
Please request Theresa Bielawski's permission prior to using her photographs! 2020.09.??: On 11/20/2020, Theresa Bielawski shared photos of 747 from her September 12-September 17, 2020 trip to Brooks Camp, #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 and #6. Theresa commented "May you all have a happy Thanksgiving and not come out on Friday looking like the 2020 Fat Bear Contest winner, 747! Pic from Sept 2020." Theresa Bielawski shared an additional September 2020 photo of 747 on 6/9/2021.
Please request Theresa Bielawski's permission prior to using her photographs!
2020.09.01: 89 Backpack and 747 in the far pool, 9/1/2020 video by Ratna Narayan.
2020.09.02: 747 fishing the far pool, 9/2/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.09.03: Mckate's 9/3/2020 video of 747 determined to run off 151 Walker. "He really didn't want Walker at the falls! After I ended this he even went down past the island to check that he was really gone. Maybe he was afraid 151 would fall on him."
Lani H captured similar 9/3/2020 video, "The funny side of 747" with appropriate music 🎼. Turn up your sound.
2020.09.04: 856 interrupts discussion between 747 and 32 Chunk while 812 looks over from the jacuzzi, 9/4/2020 video by Hey Princess.
856 interrupts discussion between 747 and 32 Chunk while 812 looks over from the jacuzzi 09.04.20-2
Video by Hey Princess
2020.09.04-09.06: Brooks Camp visitor Lee Pastewka captured a 9/4/2020 photo of 747. Lee also captured six photos of 747 on 9/6/2020, #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 and #6.
Please request Lee's (aka RiverPA ) permission prior to using her photographs !
.jpg "747 September 4, 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA).jpg (624 KB)")
_.01.jpg "747 September 6, 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .01.jpg (611 KB)")
_.02.jpg "747 September 6, 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .02.jpg (710 KB)")
_.03.jpg "747 September 6, 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .03.jpg (644 KB)")
_.04.jpg "747 September 6, 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .04.jpg (684 KB)")
_.05.jpg "747 September 6, 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .05.jpg (662 KB)")
_.06.jpg "747 September 6, 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .06.jpg (672 KB)")
2020.09.05: Lani H 9/5/2020 video, 856 has to remind 747 he's still in charge.
2020.09.06: 747 snorkels on the lower river, 9/6/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.09.07: Lani H 9/7/2020 video, 747 wonders if the bank is getting steeper.
2020.09.08: 747 and 151 Walker getting along in the far pool, 9/8/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.09.09: NSBoak (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) shared a 9/9/2020 photo of 747 on 3/5/2023.
Please request NSBoak's (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) permission prior to using her photographs!
_.01.jpg "747 September 9, 2020 photo by NSBoak (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) .01.jpg (398 KB)")
Here comes 747, 9/9/2020 video by mckate. "I wonder what he'll weigh by season's end?"
2020.09.10: Mckate's 9/10/2020 video A Little Friendly Competition. "747 really perked up when he saw 856 moving into the office. He did his best to make a catch, but missed. That spin was impressive though. He's nimble for a 1400 lb bear. Then 856, being his usual badass self, saunters over and makes a catch right in front of 747."
2020.09.11: Becky Osberg's 9/11/2020 video, 747 stands his ground against 856.
2020.09.12: 747 and 480 Otis having a discussion, 856 comes over to remind them who's boss, 9/12/2020 video by Hey Princess.
747 and 480 Otis having discussion, 856 comes over to remind them who's boss 09.12.20
Video by Hey Princess
2020.09.13: 856 and 747 fishing at the falls, 9/13/2020 video by Hey Princess.
2020.09.14: Lani H 9/14/2020 video of 856 and 747 co-existing in the far pool.
2020.09.15: 856 chases 32 Chunk out of the office. 32 Chunk is then trapped between 747 and 856, 9/15/2020 video by Lani H.
856 chases 32 Chunk out of the office. 32 Chunk is then trapped between 747 and 856. 9-15-2020-3
Video by Lani H
2020.09.17: Becky Osberg 9/17/2020 video, 856 displaces 747 from the Jacuzzi.
2020.09.18: 503 objects to 747 joining the scrap line, 9/18/2020 video by mckate. "Nice try 747. 😂 I guess he figured if it's good enough for 812, 820, and 602, why not him?"
2020.09.20: Scooch's two gifs of 747 on 9/20/2020, #1 and #2. Note: the file size is too big to upload to Wiki. Cruiser resized both gifs so they could be uploaded to Wiki. Scooch commented: "747 displays some of his best dominance moves - cowboy walking while peeing then scent marking a tree."
_.01.gif "747 September 20, 2020 gif by scooch (resized by Cruiser) .01.gif (3.35 MB)")
_.02.gif "747 September 20, 2020 gif by scooch (resized by Cruiser) .02.gif (4.13 MB)")
2020.09.21: 747 looking very fat, 9/21/2020 video by Hey Princess.
2020.09.23: Lani H 9/23/2020 video of 747 exiting the falls. 747 shows off his very portly figure.
2020.09.24: 747 and 775 Lefty say good morning, 9/24/29020 video by mckate. "In the way boars do (grumble, grumble). Good to see Lefty is still around. I thought he might have just been passing through."
2020.09.27: Wonder why he's called 747? Just look at him! 747 exits the falls by the platform in this 9/27/2020 video by Hey Princess. He has used this route late in the season vs the hill on the far side of the falls, probably due to his enormous size.
2021: Adult Male[]
747 was included in the 2022 Bears of Brooks River book page 79.
2021 Season:[]
Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) created this 2021 season video of 747, "Bear 747 2021 Top Bear."
Explore released this video titled "Autobiography of World Famous 747 - BEAR FORCE ONE! w/ Walker, Popeye, Chunk, Grazer , Brett & 856!" on 10/1/2021. The video is narrated by Charlie Annenberg Weingarten, the founder of Explore.org.
Autobiography of World Famous 747 - BEAR FORCE ONE! w- Walker, Popeye, Chunk, Grazer , Brett & 856!
Video by Explore Live Nature Cams
May 2021:[]
2021.05.21 or prior: In an email message to mazey on 5/21/2021, Ranger Naomi Boak reported "I hear that 747 was digging around the cabin next to mine. You can tell the chat that."
Brooks Camp visitor Laurie Matthews posted a 5/21/2021 or prior Instagram video of 747 digging a hole outside her cabin. Laurie commented "Earlier this week I was sitting near the window in my cabin eating breakfast when I saw something brown between the cracks of the curtains. I pulled the curtain back to see a brown bear quickly digging a hole near the foundation. I started filming through the thin panes of glass and then as the bear rolled over I remembered our bear training to let the bears do what they do so stepped away. I learned later that seeing the curtain opening was good to prevent him from doing further digging. Anyway, this is 747 who won Katmai NP’s Fat Bear Week last year so a bit of a celebrity sighting as well. I’ll never forget the time I was less than a couple of feet from a brown ."
2021.05.26: Ranger Naomi stopped in chat on 5/28/2021. When asked if she had seen 747 Ranger Naomi replied "We also saw him chase off (634) Popeye from the lower river two days ago." That would have been on 5/26.
June 2021:[]
2021.06.15: 747 made his 2021 season debut on 6/15/2020, video by mckate. He could be seen coming down the hill at the cutbank and heading to the falls. He sat in the J a short time, checked out the far pool and then headed up the far path.
A KNP&P employee captured this video of 747 on June 15, 2021. KNP&P Media Ranger Naomi Boak shared this information in the bearcam comments:
"A couple of hours ago I was on the bridge, recording some audio for Explore. While there I saw 747 walking around the lower river. He then seemed like he was heading to camp. I was off duty, so I didn't have my radio. I walked swiftly back to camp to find the bear tech on duty to tell her that 747 was heading to camp. And head to camp he did, sauntering from the lower river to the beach and in and out of the woods. On the way, he decided to let others know he had been around. Video courtesy of another park employee."
2021.06.24: Truman Everts shared two 6/24/2021 photos of 747, #1 and #2. "Hey kids...glad you enjoyed the 8 "Close-UP Christmas" snapshots, this morning. Thank you for all your kind words. Here's a big guy who wasn't in the 8...probably because the best face pics I got of him this summer were likely (?) posted months ago. At any rate, this first one is of 747 walking through camp, probably because Tinder was down. Unfortunately, both of these pics had to be taken through a window...and that's especially evident in this first one. But I like it because it's a reminder of what might be right outside your cabin door. Look both ways before you open!" Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
747 was observed on the morning of 6/23/2021. He was seen walking along the spit, river watch and spit road. He appeared to be following the scent of a sow. Gif by GABear (unable to upload due to file size), gif by Blair-55, "reverse" gif by Ruxpin, snapshot by FrogsOn, snapshot by scampwatcher, snapshot by Lovethebears1.
JG captured 6/24/2021 video of 747 smelling his way around the lower river.
747 walks along the lower river, video by Hey Princess.
2021.06.24. or prior: Howlsthunder (Kara Stenberg) posted an Instagram photo of 747 on 6/24/2021. "Boar 747 being 'escorted' through camp by NPS park staff." This photo shows 747's incredible size next to NPS equipment and the Ranger in the background.
2021.06.25 or prior: Brooks Camp visitor staceyinalaska posted an Instagram photo of 747 on 6/25/2021. Swipe left to see a 2nd photo. "We just got back from an incredible trip to Katmai! I have many photos to share, but this is one of my favorites. We were walking down the trail when this large boar emerged from the woods. We parted to the side and he started up the path to the falls, stopped and turned around. I was standing alone and the bear walked within a foot of me and made eye contact. I could smell him. I could hear him breathing. He paused briefly then kept walking down the trail. I have never had an experience like that. I was both mesmerized and terrified at the same time. It was incredible.
After talking with rangers and other Katmai bear fans, it was decided this bear is 747, the winner of the 2020 fat bear contest. " Note: This account has been made private.
2021.06.25: 747 stopped by the falls the evening of 6/25/2021, video by JG. Entrance views are from both BF and BFL cameras.
2021.06.26: 747 was seen in the early morning of 6/26/2021 at 5:47 AK, screenshot by mazey. He was viewed standing then laying down near the brooks falls platform. He stood again and then the cam moved away. LunaCre's 6/26/2021 gif.
2021.06.27: Bonnie Hankins (aka NutsBoutBears) shared two 6/27/2021 photos of 747 on 4/3/2022, #1 and #2. "I only saw 747 briefly and did not get any good pix of him. I initially wondered if he was injured, then he walked up to a tree for a good rub and I realized that is what caused all his bald spots. A lot of the bears were on the scraggly side, but he was the only one I saw with these huge chunks of fur missing. - Jun 27, 2021." Please request Bonnie Hankins' (aka NutsBoutBears) permission prior to using her photographs!
_.01.jpg "747 June 27, 2021 photo by Bonnie Hankins (aka NutsBoutBears) .01.jpg (1.13 MB)")
_.02.jpg "747 June 27, 2021 photo by Bonnie Hankins (aka NutsBoutBears) .02.jpg (1.06 MB)")
747's visit to the falls on 6/27/2021, video by Hey Princess.
Mckate's extreme closeup video of 747, 6/27/2021.
2021.06.28: On the morning of 6/28/2021, 856 was seen fishing at the falls. Not catching anything, he retired up the hill. He came back to the J a short time later and caught a fish. Instead of his usual routine of taking it to the island to eat he went up the fish ladder to consume it. That is when 747 showed up. Chatter FatBearChamp747 gives a verbal play-by-play below.
FatBearChamp747 described their interpretation of the first interaction between 747 and 856. "Went back and watched the 1st confrontation between 747 & 856 and it was even more amazing than the 2nd one - 856 Finally catches a salmon in they J - Yay the salmon are back! - but instead of eating it in the J or by the Island like he normally does, 856 climbed the ladder and went above the falls to eat his catch by 812's dinner rock - was the King of the Falls the last 10 years actually worried about getting his Salmon stolen? - then 747 climbs the ladder and approaches 856, he doesn't try to steal his fish buts puts on a full dominance display - with two tree markings above the Falls and one below by the viewing platform for good measure as he left (beginning to understand how 747 got those racing stripes on his back) maybe this is why 856 has been so anxious for the Salmon to come, he knows he is not as big as 747 is right now, maybe it won't last but at least for the moment it does look like there is a new sheriff in town."
FatBearChamp's subsequent comment. "OMG the crushing down of the tree as 747 approached 856 - lol - it's King Kong vs Godzilla and King Kong won the first two rounds - 747 was not intimidated by 856 even a little bit, maybe 747 will pay fir this insubordination later in the season but for now it sure does look like there has been a change at the top."
Mike Fitz gave his interpretation of the events. "That was quite an interesting confrontation between 747 and 856, two of the river's largest and most dominant bears. Initially, I couldn't tell if 747 approached 856 because he wanted some of 856's salmon or if 747 was just feeling strong enough to challenge 856 for dominance.
Either way, 747 demonstrated some boldness by directly approaching 856 and marking trees in front of him. After 747 moved away, 856 reciprocated a bit and also marked some of the trees near the fish ladder. However, I would score that confrontation as a draw. No bear seemed to yield to the other and much of their behavior was obscured by vegetation.
But about 10 minutes later, 747 directly approaches 856 below the falls. 856 yields upon 747's approach! Then 747 turns his back and walks away. Since this wasn't a conflict over a fishing spot then it's a clear indication that 747 "won" the interaction and at the moment can be considered more dominant. If we see 856 yield to 747 again, then we'll know there has been a shift in the hierarchy. For more than a decade, 747 has yielded to 856. That may have just changed."
Blair-55 posted this gif of the 747 (left) and 856 (right) interaction.
_and_856_(right)_confontation_June_28,_2021_gif_by_Blair-55.gif "747 (left) and 856 (right) confontation June 28, 2021 gif by Blair-55.gif (4.92 MB)")
Mike Fitz commented about the two boars body language a short time later. after viewing Blair's gif. "This captures the interaction well.
747: Head up, ears forward, direct approach--all signs of dominance.
856: Head slightly lowered, ears back, walking backwards while opponent approaches--all signs of submission."
Hey Princess's 6/28/2021 video that captures both interactions.
GA Bear's 6/28/2021 video that captures the jacuzzi interaction. Turn the sound up to hear vocalizations.
2021.006.29 or prior: Brooks Camp visitor Monica Simmons posted an Instagram photo of 747 on 6/29/2021. Monica noted that he was tracking a young female. Swipe to see 2 more photos. Monica Simmons also posted can Instagram video of 747 in camp.
July 2021:[]
2021.07.?? This 2021 video by Alexander Vanderwall appears to be from July based on 747's shed pattern. 747 can be seen from 12:45-13:08 and 14:50-14:58.
2021.07.03 or prior: Park visitor Peter Vanek posted 2 photos of 747 at the falls, #1 and #2.
2021.07.03: 747 displaces 856, 7/3/3021 video by JG.
JG's 7/3/2021 video of 747 throughout the day.
2021.07.04: NSBoak (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) shared two 7/4/2021 photos of 747 on 4/3/2022, #1 and #2.
Please request NSBoak's (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) permission prior to using her photographs!
_.01.jpg "747 July 4, 2021 NPS photo by NSBoak (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) .01.jpg (1.21 MB)")
_.02.jpg "747 July 4, 2021 NPS photo by NSBoak (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) .02.jpg (1.14 MB)")
747 waits for the salmon, 7/4/2021 video by flyer 4477.
747 and 856 have another confrontation on 7/4/2021, video by Hey Princess.
2021.07.05: Truman Everts shared this 7/5/2021 photo of 747. "I keep tellin' these big fellas if you want the gals to stop running (or fast walking) away from you...you gotta wipe that foam off your mouth now and then!! Okay...that's all the 'net time I have today...will try to post a pic or two a day before Yellowstone, in about a week... TE."
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
Ranger Naomi Boak commented in chat on 7/6/2021 about 747 being in camp the evening before (7/5/2021). "When I got back to camp, everyone was abuzz about a visit from 747. He walked right up to the narrow Lodge office porch, then investigated the Lodge porch. He then stuck his face up against a window, then walked around to the back of the Lodge, putting his face right up against the back window. Ranger Nick was the one who had to finally escort 747 out of camp. So sorry I missed that. I will try to find some pictures." See 7/6/2021 link for full comment.
747 in the jacuzzi and eating his catch at the island, 7/5/2021 video by Daniel Spaargaren.
How fast is 747? Fast! 747 runs from the island and up the fish ladder at 1400 pounds plus. He appears to be chasing 151 Walker (on top of the falls) who he does not like, 7/5/2021 video by Daniel Spaargaren.
747 on the move, 7/5/2021 video by flyer 4477. "747 sneaks up on 89 in the far pool, then comes back across the falls and marks the trees by the fish ladder. As 856 backs up from the J, 747 chases another bear from the Island."
2021.07.06: Truman Everts shared this 7/6/2021 photo of 747. "Okay, time for one more Wednesday shot: 747 wouldn't shut up about how "unfair" it was that 856 got a glamour shot...so here's 747's new Tinder profile pic..."
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
747 backs 634 Popeye off the falls, 7/6/2021 video by JG.
2021.07.07: Cam viewer and Brooks Camp visitor NWBearLove92 shared a 7/7/2021 photo of 747 laying on the island. "747 near the island…He looks grumpy in this shot. I’m not sure what he was so upset about….He was catching lots of salmon. 7/7/21." NWBearLove92 shared a 2nd 7/7/2021 photo of 747 on the island. "Happy Tongue Out Tuesday from 747! Photo from 7/7/21."
Please request NWBearLove92's permission prior to using any of their photographs!
747 puts on a display of dominance for 856, scenting and cowboy walking on the island. 7/7/2021 video by Cloud.
2021.07.08: NWBearLove92 shared four 7/8/2021 photos of an interaction between 747 and 812, #1, #2, #3 and #4. "747 and 812 had a minor disagreement…812 did pretty well defending himself against giant 747. 4 photos from 7/8/21."
Please request NWBearLove92's permission prior to using any of their photographs!
_and_812_(right)_July_8,_2021_photo_by_NWBearLove92_.01.jpg "747 (left) and 812 (right) July 8, 2021 photo by NWBearLove92 .01.jpg (1.1 MB)")
_and_812_(right)_July_8,_2021_photo_by_NWBearLove92_.02.jpg "747 (left) and 812 (right) July 8, 2021 photo by NWBearLove92 .02.jpg (1.09 MB)")
_and_812_(right)_July_8,_2021_photo_by_NWBearLove92_.03.jpg "747 (left) and 812 (right) July 8, 2021 photo by NWBearLove92 .03.jpg (1.06 MB)")
_and_812_(right)_July_8,_2021_photo_by_NWBearLove92_.04.jpg "747 (left) and 812 (right) July 8, 2021 photo by NWBearLove92 .04.jpg (1.17 MB)")
Watch out 151 Walker! 747 is literally on his heels, 7/8/2020 video by Buddy's Mom.
Brooks Falls. Watch out 151 Walker! 747 literally on his heels. Explore.org. 7-8-21
Video by Buddy's Mom
Buddy's Mom also recorded 747 chasing 151 Walker in slow speed, 7/8/2021 video.
2021.07.09: Cam viewer and Brooks Camp visitor NWBearLove92 shared this 7/9/2021 photo of 747 on 7/28/2021. "While 856 looks pretty good this year, 747 does not….with his wonky ear, scars and his unfortunate shed pattern. 7/9/21."
NWBearLove shared six 7/9/2021 photos of an interaction between 747 and 856, #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, and #6. "7/9/21 was my last day at Brooks…it was cold and raining pretty hard most of the day. Of course, that did not stop me from from enjoying the bears. I just put on my poncho and warm clothes. (As a plus there were less people on the falls platform). However, it did make taking photos a little more challenging. I call this series of 6 photos “two grumpy boars arguing in the rain”. 856 came up from the riffles towards the falls and had a mild disagreement with 747 near the island. 856 seemed to back down and 747 was satisfied with his new top bear status."
Pease request NWBearLove92's permission prior to using any of their photographs!
_and_856_(right)_July_9,_2021_photo_by_NWBearLove92_.01.jpg "747 (left) and 856 (right) July 9, 2021 photo by NWBearLove92 .01.jpg (984 KB)")
_and_856_(right)_July_9,_2021_photo_by_NWBearLove92_.02.jpg "747 (left) and 856 (right) July 9, 2021 photo by NWBearLove92 .02.jpg (894 KB)")
_and_856_(right)_July_9,_2021_photo_by_NWBearLove92_.03.jpg "747 (left) and 856 (right) July 9, 2021 photo by NWBearLove92 .03.jpg (1.03 MB)")
_and_856_(far)_July_9,_2021_photo_by_NWBearLove92_.01.jpg "747 (near) and 856 (far) July 9, 2021 photo by NWBearLove92 .01.jpg (889 KB)")
856 defends the "J" sending 747 to the side, 7/9/2021 video by flyer 4477.
2021.07.11: 747 takes a nap at the island, 7/11/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.07.12: 747 just heard about the popcorn fish, 7/12/2021 video by mckate. "And ran all the way to the falls."
2021.07.13: 747 sits by the falls, roams over to the jacuzzi area and does not see any fish, 7/13/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.07.15: 747 (bottom) and 289 (top) snooze on the cutbank, 7/15/2021 video by mckate. "289 has been around for a few days, but I've been missing her. Nice rest spot 747 has there!"
2021.07.16: 747 (middle) makes 89 Backpack (front) and an unknown bear uncomfortable, 7/16/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.07.17: 503 Cubadult (402's 2013 biological offspring) expresses interest in 402 on the lip with 747 below Brooks Falls. 747 has been courting 402 recently. Flyer 4477 (aka SteveCA) created this video.:
402-503-747 on 2021 07 17 Courtesy of Explore.org
503 expresses interest in 402 (503's biological mother), 747 does not approve July 17, 2021 video by Flyer 4477 (aka SteveCA)
Xander-Sage-2 captured this snapshot and created this image of 747 guarding 402 on top of the lip of Brooks Falls after 503 Cubadult expressed interest in 402 being in estrus.
747 naps on top of the falls while guarding 402 on the lip, 7/17/2021 video by Hey Princess.
747 naps on top of the falls while guarding 402 on the lip Explore.org 07.17.21-2
Video by Hey Princess
2021.07.18: 20 gets too close to 747 and gets chased off at 1:35, 7/18/2021 video by Ratna Narayan.
2021.07.20: Bearoplane_747 created these gifs (#1 & #2) of 747.
JG's 7/20/2021 video, 747 and 32 Chunk encounter.
2021.07.22: 503 arrives at the falls and gets attacked from behind by 747. 128 Grazer leaves the lip and goes after 503 and stares down 747, 7/22/2021 video by markindify.
2021.07.23: 747 eats his fish in the jacuzzi, 7/23/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.07.23-07.26: Theresa Bielawski shared three 7/23-7/26/2021 photos of 634 Popeye with 747 in chat, #1, #2 and #3. "The handsome Popeye in July 2021. 747 strolled by, but it was uneventful."
Please request Theresa Bielawski's permission prior to using her photographs!
_and_747_(left)_July_23-July_26,_2021_photo_by_%C2%A9Theresa_Bielawski_.01.jpg "634 Popeye (right) and 747 (left) July 23-July 26, 2021 photo by ©Theresa Bielawski .01.jpg (1.27 MB)")
_and_747_(left)_July_23-July_26,_2021_photo_by_%C2%A9Theresa_Bielawski_.02.jpg "634 Popeye (right) and 747 (left) July 23-July 26, 2021 photo by ©Theresa Bielawski .02.jpg (1.2 MB)")
_and_747_(left)_July_23-July_26,_2021_photo_by_%C2%A9Theresa_Bielawski_.03.jpg "634 Popeye (right) and 747 (left) July 23-July 26, 2021 photo by ©Theresa Bielawski .03.jpg (1.22 MB)")
2021.07.23-07.27: Mocha-SoCal shared this 7/23-7/27/2021 photo of 747. Mocha-SoCal shared this 7/26/2021 photo of 747. Mocha-SoCal shared this 7/26/2021 photo of 747. Please request Mocha-SoCal's permission prior to using her photographs!
2021.07.24: 747 bluff charges a bear on the lip then has an encounter with 151 Walker, 7/24/2021 video by Flyer 4477.
2021.07.25: 856 (right) yields to 747 (left), 7/25/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.07.26: 747 (left) and 634 Popeye (right) fish the office area, 7/26/2021 snapshot by ILOVEHOLLYSCUB.
_and_634_Popeye_(right)_July_26,_2021_snapshot_by_ILOVEHOLLYSCUB.jpg "747 (left) and 634 Popeye (right) July 26, 2021 snapshot by ILOVEHOLLYSCUB.jpg (108 KB)")
2021.07.27: A three boar triangle, 7/27/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.07.28: 747 makes a catch in the jacuzzi, 7/28/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.07.29: 747 receives no special greeting from 480 Otis, 7/29/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.07.31: 747 (near) and 480 Otis fishing in the far pool and office, 7/31/2021 snapshot by Hibernating Bear.
_and_480_Otis_(far)_July_31,_2021_snapshot_by_Hibernating_Bear.jpg "747 (near) and 480 Otis (far) July 31, 2021 snapshot by Hibernating Bear.jpg (92 KB)")
August 2021:[]
2021.08.01: 747 and 32 Chunk dustup 32 gets the scraps, 8/1/2021 video by JG.
2021.08.01-08.04: Cam viewer and Brooks Camp visitor Betsy Pitlick (aka BetsyBear) captured five photos of 747 taken between 8/1-8/4/2021, #1, #2, #3, #4 and #5.
Please request Betsy Pitlick's (aka BetsyBear) permission prior to using her photographs!
_.01.jpeg "747 August 1, 2021 photo by Betsy Pitlick (aka BetsyBear) .01.jpeg (131 KB)")
_.01.jpeg "747 August 2, 2021 photo by Betsy Pitlick (aka BetsyBear) .01.jpeg (192 KB)")
_.02.jpeg "747 August 2, 2021 photo by Betsy Pitlick (aka BetsyBear) .02.jpeg (149 KB)")
_.01.jpeg "747 August 4, 2021 photo by Betsy Pitlick (aka BetsyBear) .01.jpeg (132 KB)")
_.02.jpeg "747 August 4, 2021 photo by Betsy Pitlick (aka BetsyBear) .02.jpeg (159 KB)")
2021.08.02: 747 misses a fish on the conveyer, 8/2/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.08.03 or Prior: Mrsb111 (Cara Siciliano) captured this tik tok video of 747 on the trail to Brooks Falls (p 08/03/2021) Mrsb111 also has other videos posted from their time at Brooks Camp.
Cozy Club captured this twitter video of 747 on the trail to Brooks Falls (p 08/04/2021 02:24 AKDT).
According to msn, Cara Siciliano (Mrsb111) is the park visitor that captured the above video of 747. According to Right This Minute, Cara Siciliano is known as Mrsb111 on tik tok. Right This Minute also discusses Explore.org in their segment that included Cara Siciliano's video of 747.
Mike Fitz, Resident Naturalist with Explore.org and former KNP&P Ranger, shared this interpretation of 747's behavior observed in the above videos by Mrsb111 and Cozy Club. Mike also shared some best practices for park visitors to utilize to increase safety (for both park visitors and the bears) while cohabitating with the bears of Brooks River.:
"In the video, 747 was stressed. You can hear him jaw-popping when he turned around. His vocalizations and movement could've been a reaction to the presence of people or something else. I'm not sure.
One note I would like to add about getting off the trail: While it is important to give bears the right-of-way, it equally important to give bears as much space as possible. That means getting off the trail as far as you can before the bear is close by. However, separating yourself from the bear's space isn't always possible due to the design of trails at Brooks River. The forest behind the group recording the video is quite thick, for example. They might not have had time to move off the road before 747 was too close. In a situation when it doesn't seem like you have time to move away safely, then standing your ground and letting the bear choose how it will avoid you is often a good decision.
Situations like these are common at Brooks Camp. With the exception of the wildlife viewing platforms most infrastructure at Brooks Camp, including the trails, are not designed or well placed to separate people from bears. Most bears at Brooks Camp expect to encounter people on trails, though, so sticking to the trails and roads can certainly help increase your safety. Along with staying on designated trails, I encourage anyone who visits Brooks Camp to hike in groups, remain aware of your surroundings to the best of your ability, and plan ahead for what you will do in a surprise encounter."
DanteV2000 shared the two following photographs (#1 & #2) that show the location of the park visitors and 747 and provide a visual perspective that while not available in the park visitor's video, demonstrates Mike Fitz' comment about the limited area the park visitors had available to them to yield space to 747. This is also a very good example of how what we are able to see in a video, in a photograph, or on the live cams does not always tell us everything we need to know to understand what exactly we are seeing.:
Giant Bear Casually Walks Past Tourists in Alaska's Katmai National Park
747 in 2021 (August 3, 2021 or prior) by Cara Siciliano via Storyful
Fun Fact: The KNP&P sign that 747 appears to look at in the above video, the one that sits at the Brooks Falls trailhead, was painted by Sara Wolman, former KNP&P Ranger. You can see it as a work in progress on Sara's October 17, 2016 instagram post.
On August 10, 2021 at 12:37 AKDT during the live comment chat on the dedicated Live Chat cam comments, Mike Fitz, also shared this information about the above video by Cara Siciliano.:
"To begin, I'd like to address a video recorded at Brooks Camp that has recently gone viral.
In case you haven't seen it, the video shows bear 747--the largest adult male at Brooks River--walking within a few feet of a group of people standing on the side of the road near the Brooks Falls trailhead. 747 walks past the group, then turns around near the falls trailhead.
Many reactions to the video ranged from surprise to outrage. On the other hand I--having experienced similar situations as a ranger and visitor--had a different response. I was not surprised at all. When asked about it, I initially provided a bit of a muted response.
In the video, 747 was stressed. You can hear him jaw-popping when he turned around. His vocalizations and movement could've been a reaction to the presence of people or something else. I'm not sure.
One note I would like to add about getting off the trail: While it is important to give bears the right-of-way, it equally important to give bears as much space as possible. That means getting off the trail as far as you can before the bear is close by. However, separating yourself from the bear's space isn't always possible due to the design of trails at Brooks River. The forest behind the group recording the video is quite thick, for example. They might not have had time to move off the road before 747 was too close. In a situation when it doesn't seem like you have time to move away safely, then standing your ground and letting the bear choose how it will avoid you is often a good decision.
Situations like these are common at Brooks Camp. With the exception of the wildlife viewing platforms most infrastructure at Brooks Camp, including the trails, are not designed or well placed to separate people from bears. Most bears at Brooks Camp expect to encounter people on trails, though, so sticking to the trails and roads can certainly help increase your safety. Along with staying on designated trails, I encourage anyone who visits Brooks Camp to hike in groups, remain aware of your surroundings to the best of your ability, and plan ahead for what you will do in a surprise encounter.
During the mandatory bear orientation at Brooks Camp, rangers emphasize to visitors the importance of giving bears the right-of-way. To do that, it is often necessary to step out of a bear's line of travel as far as you can safely, and take that action as soon as possible. Sometimes that means backing away to a safer location where you can take shelter (a wildlife-viewing platform or building, for example). Sometimes that means stepping off the trail or road with the goal to maintain at least 50 yards of space between you and bear. And, sometimes during a surprise encounter that means getting out of its pathway as best you can, even if that's only a few feet. The first two options are ideal and preferred over the last.
So Mike, could the people have moved farther away? Should they have? Maybe, although there are a couple of factors to consider. 1. 747 may have surprised them. They may only have had time to move to the edge of the road. 2. There might have been members of the group who were not physically capable of walking off trail into the forest, even for a short distance. Since I can't see evidence to the contrary in the video, then I think it is appropriate to give their position on the edge of the road the benefit of the doubt.
One thing you'll hear in the video is someone repeatedly saying "Hey bear." Talking in a normal tone of voice to your group about what to do is appropriate, of course. It's also appropriate to talk to a bear to inform it that you are a person. However, while it is appropriate to let a bear know you are there, once a bear is aware of your presence you generally do not need to make extra noise as it could provoke a defensive response. Exceptions to this would be if the bear is overtly curious or food-conditioned. Then you'd want to make extra noise.
When I discussed the video with Ranger Naomi, she brought up a good point that I should have communicated before. That is, in those situations your priority should not be photographs or video. Focus on the bear's behavior instead, so that you can respond as quickly as possible to any changes. Smart phones aren't to blame here. Trying to record the close proximity of a bear has been in the mindset of people at Brooks Camp for decades. The temptation will be there if you experience it, trust me, so if you are ever in a similar situation reconsider the urge to use your phone or camera. Focus your mind on the bear's actions first and foremost.
I also want to make one thing clear: similar scenarios happen many times per day at Brooks River in July and September. That is not an exaggeration. It happens on the trails as well as with anglers and photographers who venture into the river. Brooks River is a loosely regulated bear-viewing site compared to McNeil River, Pack Creek, and Anan Creek. During July there can be hundreds of people at Brooks Camp, dozens of bears using the same area, and far too few rangers to manage it all. The next time a close encounter video goes viral from Brooks Camp, don't be surprised. Instead consider how infrastructure, the lay of the land, high levels of visitation, and too few rangers create these situations.
Postscript: I also wrote a blog post about the lessons I've learned regarding a bear video gone viral."
On August 28, 2023 a former seasonal KNP&P ranger and current bearcam moderator, bearcamaddict had a different viewpoint on the behavior of the park visitors in the above video and shared in their 08/28/2023 10:19 comment:
"That is 747. Just a note: these visitors engaged in very poor bear / people behavior. They could easily have moved 50 yards from the bear or gone into the restroom that is right there to watch him walk by. Every visitor is given a bear orientation when they arrive at Brooks Camp and should know to give bears more space to move past on the path."
"I have used the restroom that is right there many times to avoid bear encounters at that spot when I was a ranger there. It is right at the falls trailhead and it is easy to avoid bears there. They could also have walked up the road. The point is they could have done more to provide more space to 747 at that particular location."
Please note: Mike Fitz has more years of experience as a former Alaska resident and multiple season former KNP&P ranger.
2021.08.04: 747's rare appearance on the lower river, 8/4/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.08.05: 469 "Patches" displaces 747 next to the J (low and high cam), 8/5/2021 video by JG.
2021.08.06: KNP&P Media Ranger Naomi Boak captured this NPS photograph of 747 (p 08/07/2021 09:46).:
LunaCre's 8/6/2021 gif of 747 sitting on the conveyer and 801 in the office.
2021.08.07: 747 (near) and 480 Otis in the office, 8/7/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.08.08: 747 enjoying his catch, 8/8/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.08.08-08.13: Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) shared two 8/8-8/13/2021 photos of 151 Walker with 747, #1 and #2. Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) shared eight 8/8-8/13/2021 photos of 747 on 4/3/2022, #1 with 480 Otis, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6, #7 and #8.
Please request Deanna Dittloff's (aka deelynnd) permission prior to using her photographs!
_and_747_(near)_August_8-August_13,_2021_photo_by_Deanna_Dittloff_(aka_deelynnd)_.01.jpg "151 Walker (far) and 747 (near) August 8-August 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .01.jpg (79 KB)")
_and_747_(near)_August_8-August_13,_2021_photo_by_Deanna_Dittloff_(aka_deelynnd)_.02.jpg "151 Walker (far) and 747 (near) August 8-August 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .02.jpg (65 KB)")
_and_480_Otis_(far)_August_8-August_13,_2021_photo_by_Deanna_Dittloff_(aka_deelynnd)_.01.jpg "747 (near) and 480 Otis (far) August 8-August 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .01.jpg (71 KB)")
_.01.jpg "747 August 8-August 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .01.jpg (42 KB)")
_.02.jpg "747 August 8-August 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .02.jpg (92 KB)")
_.03.jpg "747 August 8-August 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .03.jpg (89 KB)")
_.04.jpg "747 August 8-August 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .04.jpg (62 KB)")
_.05.jpg "747 August 8-August 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .05.jpg (85 KB)")
_.06.jpg "747 August 8-August 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .06.jpg (89 KB)")
_.07.jpg "747 August 8-August 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .07.jpg (42 KB)")
2021.08.09: 801 wants the office, 480 Otis will not yield, 747 is nearest, 8/9/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.08.10: 747 fishes right below the falls, 8/10/2021 snapshot by Hibernating Bear.
2021.08.11: 747 displaces 480 Otis in the J, 8/11/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.08.12 or prior: 747 can be seen in this 8/12/2021 or prior video by Wild Revelations Outdoors. He can be viewed at 3:07-3:10, 4:16-4:33 and 6:21-6:26.
The Brown Bears of Brooks Falls - Part 1 - Katmai National Park and Preserve - Alaska
2021 video by Wild Revelation Outdoors
2021.08.12: 747 struggles to climb the hill, 8/12/2021 video by Buddy's Mom.
2021.08.13: 747 eats his fish downriver, 8/13/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.08.14: Ranger Naomi Boak shared two photos of 747 in chat on 8/14/2021. Photo #1 shows 747 from behind with an unknown bear. Photo #2 is 747 alone. "On the lower river this morning. 747 and I don't know who. And Alice."
Please request NSBoak's (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) permission prior to using her photographs!
.jpg "747 and unknown bear August 14, 2021 NPS photo by Ranger Naomi Boak (aka NSBoak).jpg (2.32 MB)")
_.jpg "747 August 14, 2021 NPS photo by Ranger Naomi Boak (aka NSBoak) .jpg (2.47 MB)")
747 takes a break from the falls and fishes the lower river, 8/14/2021 video by Buddy's Mom.
2021.08.15: 747 leaves to take a nap, 8/15/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.08.16: 854 Divot displaces 806 off the lip and yells at 747, 8/16/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.08.17: 747 really needs a nap, 8/17/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.08.18: Disco-Sheep's 8/18/2021 snapshot of 747 in the jacuzzi.
2021.08.19: Close up of 747 in the J, 8/19/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.08.20: 747 poses for the cam, 8/20/2021 snapshot by Sailor Moon.
2021.08.21: 747 objects to 812 taking his spot in the J, 8/21/2021 video by Birgitt.
2021.08.22: Bear 747 up close and personal, 8/22/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.08.23: An unidentified boar (L) showed up at the falls and 747 (R) immediately let him know who was running the show there, 8/23/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.08.24: 747 backs up 151 Walker and shows his dominance by sitting and then walking away, 8/24/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.08.25: 747 tries to scare 128 Grazer and yearlings away, 8/25/2021 video by Hey Princess. "Nice try 747 but that didn't work!"
2021.08.26: The struggle is getting real, 8/26/2021 video by Hey Princess. 747 slowly climbs up the far hill. "747 must weigh close to 1600 lbs or more!"
2021.08.27: 747 tries to prevent 854 Divot from entering the far pool and she chases him off, 8/27/2021 video by Itzy Holly.
2021.08.28: 747 does not want to share the falls even though there are few bears there, 8/28/2021 video by Buddy's Mom.
2021.08.29 or prior: In a video by mashjax posted on 8/29/2021 or prior, 854 Divot and her 2 yearlings arrive above the falls and then 854 proceeds to move 747 out of the far pool. 879 watches from the office.
2021.08.29: The Big Boys, 8/29/2021 video by Cheryl B. 747 below the falls and left to right, 151 Walker, 480 Otis, and 879.
Birgitt's 8/29/2021 video, 747 arrives at the falls and says hi to 879 128 Grazer, her 2 yearlings and 812.
2021.08.30: 747 chases off 128 Grazer and her 2 yearlings, 8/30/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.08.31: 747 reminds 32 Chunk who's the boss, 8/31/2021 video by Hey Princess.
September 2021:[]
2021.09.01: 747 sits and rests on the conveyer, 9/1/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.09.02: 747 does his "backward sit" on the conveyer, 9/2/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.09.03: 747 is a regular at the conveyer, 9/3/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.09.04: 747 enjoys his fish, 9/4/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.09.05: 747 naps on the river, 9/5/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.09.06: 747 (near) is not impressed with 32 Chunk pouncing in the office, 9/6/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.09.08: 747 (near) and 856 fish the far pool, 9/8/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.09.09: 32 Chunk's fish draws 747's interest, 9/9/2021 video by mckate. "Poor old Chunk couldn't eat his fish in peace. First the young guys, 812, 820, and Bucky were literally salivating over it, then here comes 747! And, as if repeatedly peeking around the corner wasn't funny enough, Chunk's eyes got HUGE when he saw 747 was almost right on top of him."
2021.09.10: 747 on the conveyer and 856 in the office, 9/10/2021 snapshot by Hibernating Bear.
_and_856_(far)_September_10,_2021_snapshot_by_Hibernating_Bear.jpg "747 (near) and 856 (far) September 10, 2021 snapshot by Hibernating Bear.jpg (111 KB)")
2021.09.11: 747 standing and facing the camera, 9/11/2021 snapshot by Shel_.
2021.09.12: 747 reminds 856 who is #1, 9/12/2021 video by mckate. "856 was backing 32 out of the far pool when 747 walked over and bit 856 and knocked him down as a reminder that he is no longer the dominant bear. (It's traditionally poor boar etiquette to put on displays of dominance when the actual dominant bear is nearby.) 856 did not fight back, so sure seems to accept his No. 2 spot. I don't recall any real contact between them early in the season. It was mostly posturing by 747 that we caught on the falls cam, so this was a little jarring to see."
2021.09.13: 747 (right) and 151 Walker share the far pool, 9/13/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.09.14: A nice close up video of 747 by Cheryl B on 9/14/2021.
2021.09.15: 474 (left) fishes the far pool with 480 Otis (office) and 747 (conveyer), 9/15/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.09.16: 747 eating his catch in the riffles, 9/16/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.09.17: 747 displaces 634 Popeye, 9/17/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.09.18: 856 (left) and 747 (right) peacefully fish the far pool, 9/18/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.09.19: A cautious 89 Backpack eats his fish in the office with 747 nearby on the conveyer, 9/19/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.09.21: 747 was last observed on 9/21/2021, snapshot by Hibernating Bear. He is seen at the falls on the infrared cam.
October 2021:[]
2021.10.01: After 747 went to den, Charlie Annenberg (founder of Explore.org) narrated a video titled "Autobiography of World Famous 747 - BEAR FORCE ONE!"
Autobiography of World Famous 747 - BEAR FORCE ONE! w- Walker, Popeye, Chunk, Grazer , Brett & 856!-2
Video by Explore
2022: Adult Male[]
2022 Season:[]
747 was crowned the 2022 Fat Bear Champion in October, his 2nd win in two years, video by Explore.
Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) created this 2022 season video of 747, "Bear 747 2022."
June-July 2022:[]
Betsy Bear's six June-July 2022 photos of 747, #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 and #6.
Please request BetsyBear's permission prior to using her photographs!
June 2022:[]
2022.06.16 or prior: Ranger Tammy Carmack observed 747 at Brooks Camp June 16, 2022 or prior. 747's right ear is ripped and he has more scars than when last observed during the 2021 season.
2022.06.18: Three 6/18/2022 photos of 747 by Kara Stenberg posted on Kara Stenberg's Facebook page on 6/19/2022, #1, #2 and #3. 747 can be seen in the jacuzzi waiting for the salmon to arrive. His right ear appears to still be attached but flat against his head. Kara commented "Poor broken-eared 747. He’s back, though! June 18, 2022."
Please request Kara Stenberg's permission prior to using her photographs!
747 is seen in a series of 3 photos in this 6/18/2022 Instagram post by howlsthunder. His right ear appears to still be attached but flat against his head. We will miss those peg ears.
2022.06.22: 747 waits patiently for salmon, 6/22/2022 video by Itzy LO 335.
747 checks the falls, 6/22/2022 video by JG.
2022.06.23: 747 fishes the J, 6/23/2022 video by Cheryl B.
2022.06.24: 747 and 856 had their first interaction of the year on 6/24/2022, video by Jen Schneider. JG shared the following interpretation of the interaction between 856 and 747 at the falls (p 16:18). (approx 16:14). "856 challenged 747 kept his ears forwards, 747 didn't take him up on it and 856 turned his back perceiving no threat."
856 and 747 have a minor disagreement Brooks Falls cam Explore.org 6-24- 2022
Video by Jen Schneider
In a 2nd interaction on 6/24/2022, 856 is in the J while 747 is seen in the background eating a fish, video by Cheryl B. 856 approaches 747 who is submissive and drops his fish which 856 finishes for him.
6-24-2022 BF (Part 1) 856 & 747 "Testing Boundaries" establishing hierarchy Explore.org-2
Video by Cheryl B
JG's video of multiple encounters during the day, 6/24/2022 video.
747 photo by Truman Everts, 6/24/2022. "Was a little tough, at first, seeing (in person) the new injuries that 747 brought into Brooks camp with him..." Truman Evert's 6/24/2022 photo of 747. "From beat up pretty bad...to World Champ, in just 3.5 months..."I'd like to thank the academy..." --747."
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
2022.06.25: Truman Evert's 6/25/2022 photo of 747.
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
GreenRiver created this artwork of 747 (p 20:40).:
747 cowboy walking in this video by Jen.:
747 displaces 856, 6/25/2022 video by JG.
747 sits below the falls, 6/26/2022 video by Cheryl B.
6-26-2022 BF 747 sitting on shoreline @ the falls just smelling & watching Explore.org
Video by Cheryl B
2022.06.27: "It was hard to see the relatively fresh marks on 747, upon his return to Brooks in June. One cringes to think on how/when those injuries were inflicted. This was one of my preferred snapshots of the biggest bear in Brooks, in part because one doesn't see the nastiest wound, right behind his right ear", 6/27/2022 photo by Truman Everts. Truman Evert's 6/27/2022 photo of 747.
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
Melissa Freels shared this 6/27/2022 photo of 747.
Please request Melissa Freel's permission prior to using her photographs!
More encounters between 856 and 747, 6/27/2022 video by JG.
747 displaces 83 Wayne Brother in the J, 6/27/2022 video by Cheryl B.
2022.06.28: Close up view of 747, 6/28/2022 video by Hey Princess.
2022.06.29: 747 smells 1st fish and lets it go, eats 2nd fish, 6/29/2022 video by Jen Schneider.
747 smells 1st fish & lets it go, eats 2nd fish Brooks Falls cam Explore.org 6- 29-2022
Video by Jen Schneider
2022.06.30: JG captured this 6/30/2022 video of 856 asserting his dominance over 747. 856 approaches 747 on the lower river. 856 is seen jaw popping and cowboy walking. 747 lays down as 856 walks away. 856 circles around, approaches 747 again and walks into the tall grass as 747 turns and looks on.
July 2022:[]
747 appears on the list of Bears Monitored in July 2022.
2022.07.??: Roadtrip Ramblers July 2022 video of 747, "Katmai National Park - Bear 747 - Absolute Unit."
2022.07.01: Here comes 747, 7/1/2022 video by Flyer 4477. "A bear stumbles and falls when 747 heads their way."
2022.07.02: 747 takes a rest, 7/2/2022 video by JG.
2022.07.03: 747 close up on the low falls cam, 7/3/2022 video by JG.
2022.07.05: 747 bites 634 Popeye for no apparent reason, 7/5/2022 video by JG. It appeared that pieces of fur fell off of 634.
747 follows then chases 602 to show him who is boss, 7/5/2022 video by Flyer 4477.
2022.07.06: 856 cowboy walks on the spit as possibly 747 sits in the water and watches, 7/6/2022 video by JG.
2022.07.07: NWBearLove92's 7/7/2022 photo of 747. "I think 747 resembles a stellar sea lion this year with his new ear injury. He still looks very handsome though. We ran into him a couple times on the falls trail. It was exhilarating to see him so close. He just ignored us and passed right by. I really enjoyed his leadership style last year. I think it was less tense at the falls with him in charge. He’s one of my favorites. Photo from 7/7/22." Please request NWBearLove92's permission prior to using any of her photographs!
747 enjoys his catch at the island, 7/7/2022 gif by LunaCre.
2022.07.08: Close up of 747 in the jacuzzi, 7/8/2022 video by Jen Schneider.
2022.07.09: 747 is seen walking along the lower river, 7/9/2022 video by Jen Schneider.
2022.07.10: 747 tries some snorkeling, 7/10/2022 video by Jen Schneider.
2022.07.11: 747 continues to fit the lower river, 7/11/2022 video by Jen Schneider.
2022.07.14: NWBearLove92's 7/14/2022 photo of 747. "747 has the best neck rolls…Happy to see that he’s top bear again. 7/14/22."
Please request NWBearLove92's permission prior to using any of her photographs!
2022.07.15: 747 catches a fish below the falls while 856 is in the jacuzzi, 7/15/2022 video by Jen Schneider.
2022.07.16: 747 comes down the far path and makes his way to the jacuzzi, 7/16/2022 video by Flyer 4477. 503 and 83 Wayne Brother move out of the way.
2022.07.18: 747 and 856 have a quick stare down before 856 walks away, 7/18/2022 video by Jen Schneider.
747 and 856 have a quick staredown before 856 walks away Brooks Falls cam Explore.org 7-18-2022
Video by Jen Schneider
2022.07.20: 747 calls it a day and exits by the falls platform, 7/20/2022 video by JG.
2022.07.22: 856 vs 32 Chunk, 7/22/2022 video by chatter and Brooks Camp visitor Kara di Baleaux. Shared in chat on 8/4/2022. "856 marks tree in front of Chunk. They have an altercation and 856 struts away close to 747, who takes notice. Chunk moves up river soon after but keeps his distance from 747." 32 Chunk is seen at 0:53 (on the right) and at 1:52. 747 is seen at 1:30.
856 calmly displaces 747 from the J, 7/22/2022 video by Jen Schneider.
2022.07.23: 747 is looking huge, 7/23/2022 video by Cheryl B.
2022.07.26: 747 and 634 Popeye interactions, 7/26/2022 video by JG.
854 Divot and 747 fish side by side, 7/26/2022 video by mckate. "I'm not entirely sure what this was all about unless she is still in estrous. 747 was fishing the J before he came over to stand right next to her. She objected a little bit, but didn't move. They had the whole falls to themselves, but chose to stand together at the conveyor belt where Divot did eventually have some luck. It was nice that they could be this companionable."
2022.07.27: 747 occupies most of the frame on the Brooks Falls low cam, 7/27/2022 video by Jen Schneider.
2022.07.30: 747 makes his way to the falls, 7/30/2022 video by Jen Schneider.
2022.07.31: A standoff at the Katmai Corral between 32 Chunk (left), 747 (center) and 480 Otis (right), 7/31/2022 video by Cheryl B. 480 Otis is mostly a bystander while 747 lets 32 Chunk know who is boss.
7-31-2022 BF Stand off @ the Katmai Corral 32 -747- 480 Never show your backside Explore.org
Video by Cheryl B
August 2022:[]
2022.08.01: 856 is suddenly acting submissive to 747's approach, 8/1/2022 video by JG. Was there an off cam event that could have caused this?
2022.08.03: After some discussion, 747 lets 854 Divot have his spot, 8/3/2022 video by Buddy's Mom.
BF. After some discussion, 747 lets 854 Divot have his spot. Explore.org. 8-3-33
Video by Buddy's Mom
2022.08.05: 402 pushes back 747, 8/5/2022 video by JG. 402's cubs are out of the frame.
2022.08.06: 747 confronts 32 Chunk, 8/6/2022 video by JG.
2022.08.08: 480 Otis considered giving 747 a boost but he managed to climb up the far lip without too much trouble, 8/8/2022 gif by LunaCre.
2022.08.09: 747 high-grades the brain and tosses the rest back, 8/9/2022 video by Jen Schneider.
747 high-grades the brain and tosses the rest back Brooks Falls cam Explore.org 8-9-2022
Video by Jen Schneider
2022.08.11: 747 digs below the platform and then exits behind it, 8/11/2022 video by JG.
2022.08.12: 747 impressively hauls his big behind up the hill, 8/12/2022 video by Jen Schneider.
747 impressively hauls his big behind up the hill Brooks Falls cam Explore.org 8-12-2022-2
Video by Jen Schneider
2022.08.13: 854 Divot stops 747 midnip, 8/13/2022 video by mckate. "Divot knows 747's ways. It's kind of surprising that he's resisted biting her butt for as long as he has considering that they've been fishing this spot together for some time now."
2022.08.15: 164 trades punches with 747 before floating downriver, 8/15/2022 video by Buddy's Mom.
2022.08.16: 747 moves as 854 Divot arrives, 8/16/2022 video by Jen Schneider.
2022.08.17: Grumpy old bears 747 and 480 Otis sit across from each other and vocalize, 8/17/2022 video by JG.
2022.08.18: 747 easily displaces 856 and moves him downriver, 8/18/2022 video by JG (2 cam views).
2022.08.19: 747 tries to get comfortable, 8/19/2022 video by mckate. "It's not always easy being one of the world's fattest bears."
2022.08.20: 747 diverts the river with his bulk, 8/20/2022 video by JG.
2022.08.22: 747 hauls himself up the hill, 8/22/2022 video by twelve22.
2022.08.24: 747 scratches his bad ear, 8/24/2022 gif by LunaCre.
2022.08.26: 164 sneaks between 747 and 480 Otis, 8/26/2022 gif by LunaCre.
2022.08.27: 747 inadvertently dislodges a log, 8/27/2022 video by mckate. "It looked like he accidentally sat on the end and sent it downstream when he jumped up to chase a fish. So this log saga has ended, much to 801's relief."
2022.08.28: Tensions increase in the far pool between 747, 801 and 856, 8/28/2022 video by JG.
747 takes a break while struggling to climb the hill, 8/28/2022 video by Buddy's Mom.
2022.08.29: 747 (right) displaces 856 from the conveyer belt, 8/29/2022 gif by LunaCre.
2022.08.30: 747 close ups, 8/30/2022 video by JG.
2022.08.31: 480 Otis gets drenched again, 8/31/2022 video by mckate. 747 is seen on the conveyer. "856 displaced 480 from the office again, and Otis found himself trapped in the corner for a good 10 minutes. I think 856 had forgotten that he was back there until Otis tried to sneak by. He needs a better plan!"
September 2022:[]
747 appears on the list of Bears Monitored in September 2022.
2022.09.01: NWBearLove92's 9/1/2022 photo of 747. "747 is looking much better than earlier in the season with his fluffy fall coat coming in. 9/1/22." Amy (NWBEARLOVE92)'s 9/1/2022 photo of 747.
Please request NWBearLove92's permission prior to using any of her photographs!
_02.jpg "747 September 1, 2022 photo by Amy (NWBEARLOVE92) 02.jpg (3.85 MB)")
480 Otis prays that 747 doesn’t fall and splash him, 9/1/2022 video by Buddy's Mom.
2022.09.02: On 2/12/2023, cam viewer and Brooks Camp visitor Bearoplane_747 shared two 9/2/2022 photos of 747 with 856 in the far pool, #1 and #2. "Happy 856 day! This handsome boar was fishing in the office on my day trip to Katmai on 9/2/22. He and the other boars were a little overshadowed by the adorable antics of 910's cub she's hard to look at from, but I still got some nice photos of everyone else. 747 in front with 856 in the office."
Please request Bearoplane_747's permission prior to using their photographs!
_and_856_(far)_September_2,_2022_photo_by_Bearoplane_747_.01.jpg "747 (near) and 856 (far) September 2, 2022 photo by Bearoplane 747 .01.jpg (2.06 MB)")
_and_856_(far)_September_2,_2022_photo_by_Bearoplane_747_.02.jpg "747 (near) and 856 (far) September 2, 2022 photo by Bearoplane 747 .02.jpg (1.99 MB)")
747 pushes 856 downstream, 9/2/2022 video by mckate.
2022.09.03: 747 takes a break and relaxes in the river, 9/3/2022 gif by LunaCre.
2022.09.05: NWBearLove92's 9/5/2022 photo of 747 (left) and 32 Chunk (right). "32 was being yelled at by 747 all day and was not catching any of his own fish."
Please request NWBearLove92's permission prior to using any of her photographs!
_and_32_Chunk_(right)_September_5,_2022_photo_by_NWBearLove92_.01.jpg "747 (left) and 32 Chunk (right) September 5, 2022 photo by NWBearLove92 .01.jpg (1,015 KB)")
Lisa Robertson (aka Larinor) shared a 9/14/2022 photo of 747 (left) 602 (right) and 820 (center) on 3/5/2023. "747 was just passing by, but 602 was worried that he was coming after him. 820 stayed put in his usual spot against the wall. September 14, 2022."
Please request Lisa Robertson's (aka Larinor) permission prior to using her photographs!
_602_(right)_and_820_(center)_September_14,_2022_photo_by_Lisa_Robertson_(aka_Larinor)_.01.jpg "747 (left) 602 (right) and 820 (center) September 14, 2022 photo by Lisa Robertson (aka Larinor) .01.jpg (923 KB)")
Cam viewer and Brooks Camp visitor bubdoggy shared a 9/5/2022 photo of 801, 747 and 856 on 1/25/2023. "801 was first bear that I posted a snap on the chat about when I went from being a lurker into being a chatter, so he holds a special place in my heart! I was so excited to see him in person on 9/5/22 at our first visit to the falls. He was in the far pool with his buddies 747 and 856. They both are more famous, but I do love 801!" Bubdoggy shared two 9/5/2022 photos of 801, 747 and 856 on 2/12/2023, #1 and #2. "These three big guys made up the "Bearmuda Triangle" in the far pool on 9/5/22. Bears 801, 856 and 747." Bubdoggy shared 9/5/2022 photos of 747 on 3/5/2023, #1, #2, #3, #4 and #5. It is difficult to see 747's tail in photo #5 due to his weight gain. Please request bubdoggy's permission prior to using their photographs!
_with_747_(right)_and_856_(back)_September_5,_2022_photo_by_bubdoggy_.01.jpg "801 (left) with 747 (right) and 856 (back) September 5, 2022 photo by bubdoggy .01.jpg (2.81 MB)")
_747_(right)_and_856_(far)_September_5,_2022_photo_by_bubdoggy_.01.jpg "801 (left) 747 (right) and 856 (far) September 5, 2022 photo by bubdoggy .01.jpg (3.29 MB)")
_747_(right)_and_856_(far)_September_5,_2022_photo_by_bubdoggy_.02.jpg "801 (left) 747 (right) and 856 (far) September 5, 2022 photo by bubdoggy .02.jpg (3.13 MB)")
Bubdoggy (aka Scott and Kara Jones) 9/5/2022 video, 747 displaying dominance to 856, 820 and 32 Chunk. "747 looped around the far pool showing every bear there that he is the boss. First he moved 856 out of the office just because he could, because he did not want the office. Then he moved a nervous 820 away from his favorite spot by the wall, while 856 moved back to the office. 32 Chunk had moved to 747's normally favored spot on the conveyor, so 747 completed his loop and moved 32 Chunk out. There were some impressive growls to be heard with this move. 801 held his spot during all this commotion. 907 fished successfully in the J while the big guys played musical bear chairs. 909 and 910, were fishing the lip. 910jr and 909jr watched the drama play out on the bank."
747 Displaying Dominance to 856 820 and 32 Chunk 090522 HD
Video by bubdoggy (aka Scott and Kara Jones), 9/5/2022
9/5/2022 video by bubdoggy (aka Scott and Kara Jones) of 747 climbing the far hill.
856 and 747 fish peacefully, 9/5/2022 video by Hey Princess.
2022.09.06: Cam viewer and Brooks camp visitor bubdoggy shared two 9/2022 photos of 32 Chunk, 747 and 856 on 2/12/2023, #1and #2. "Here is a slightly different "Bearmuda Triangle" in the far pool on 9/6/22, with 32 Chunk replacing the role previously played by 801 on the day before, but 856 and 747 reprising their roles." Bubdoggy shared six 9/6/2022 photos of 747 on 3/5/2023, #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 and #6.
Please request bubdoggy's permission prior to using their photographs!
_747_(near)_and_856_(far)_September_6,_2022_photo_by_bubdoggy_.01.jpg "32 Chunk (left) 747 (near) and 856 (far) September 6, 2022 photo by bubdoggy .01.jpg (3.13 MB)")
_747_(near)_and_856_(far)_September_6,_2022_photo_by_bubdoggy_.02.jpg "32 Chunk (left) 747 (near) and 856 (far) September 6, 2022 photo by bubdoggy .02.jpg (2.84 MB)")
856 charges 32 Chunk and pushes him out of the office, 747 watches, 9/6/2022 video by Ssunny.Y.
-9-6-2022- 856, 747 & 32 Chunk "32 wants to be in the office" (Brooks Falls Bears explore.org)
Video by Sunny.Y
2022.09.07: 856 and 747 have dinner together, 9/7/2022 video by Ssunny.Y.
2022.09.08: 747 relaxes in the river and then heads out, 9/8/2022 video by JG.
2022.09.12: Angerbodha's 9/12/2022 photo of 747.
Please request angrboda's permission prior to using her photographs!
2022.09.14: Olatz Azcona Munárriz shared a 9/14/2022 photo of 747 on 1/26/2023. "I was able to see the bear of colossal proportions, 747, at the falls, four of the five days I visited Brooks River in September. He spent the most part of the time sitting on the conveyor belt catching salmon from time to time." Olatz Azcona Munárriz shared a 9/14/2022 photo of 747 on 2/24/2023. "747 vacating the conveyor belt to get ready for his afternoon nap the early afternoon of my second day trip to Brooks River. Olatz Azcona Munárriz shared three 9/14/2022 photos of 747 on 2/5/2023, #1, #2 and #3. "747 was sitting on the conveyor belt when I made it to the falls the late morning of my second day trip to Brooks River. Loyal to his routines he vacated his spot in the early afternoon and got ready to exit the river for his nap. The pictures show his struggles to climb the steep path on the far bank that day."
Please request Olatz Azcona Munárriz's (aka Olatz) permission prior to using their photographs!
2022.09.16: Cam viewer and Brooks Camp volunteer Gin907 shared four 747 photos on 3 5/2022, #1, #2, #3 and #4 (747's paw print next to a fallen glove. "I was working my last day at the falls platform, September 16, 2022, when 747 approached. On this day I was using my phone. 747 walked right in front of the platform, went up the hill next to the fish ladder, and disappeared up river. The last photo shows his footprints in the mud next to a glove someone had dropped. He has some seriously big feet! "
Please request Gin907's permission prior to using their photographs!
Gin907's 9/16/2022 video of 747 walking in front of the falls platform
2022.09.17: Olatz Azcona Munárriz shared a 9/17/2022 photo of 747 on 3/5/2023. "747 was sitting on the conveyor belt when I made it to the falls for the last time, the afternoon of my fifth and last day trip to Brooks River. He was there until a dead tree came over the falls and scared several bears away. He was one of them. 747 decided to walk up the falls and head upstream."
Please request Olatz Azcona Munárriz's (aka Olatz) permission prior to using their photographs!
2022.09.18: 747 and 856 share the far side of the falls, 9/18/2022 video by JG.
2022.09.19: 747 takes his catch to calmer waters, 9/19/2022 video by JG.
2022.09.20: A long look at 747 on the last day he was observed, 9/20/2022 video by JG. 747 is looking quite large as he heads to his den. Will he repeat as Fat Bear Champ in 2023?
2023: Adult Male[]
May 2023:[]
2023.05.26: 747 arrives at Brooks Camp for the 2023 season. Ranger Naomi Boak shared the BIG news of his afternoon arrival in her 16:46 comment.:
"Good afternoon, everyone. News from Brooks Camp. 747 showed up in camp this afternoon. He looks great. If it were any other bear, you'd think he'd be ready for hibernation. He was fat, but skinny for 747, meaning his belly was not touching the ground. He tried to reprise his visit to the Lodge, but bear management prevented that."
Ranger Naomi shared these May 26, 2023 NPS photographs (#1 & #2) of 747 (p 05/28/2023 09:00).:
June 2023:[]
2023.06.16 & the Week or so Prior: 747 was observed courting 909 for a week or so before June 16, 2023 per Brooks Lodge's June 16, 2023 08:25 Facebook post:
909 was observed being courted by 747 for a week or so before June 16, 2023 per Brooks Lodge's June 16, 2023 09:25 Facebook post.
2023.06.17: 747 checks out the falls in this video by Sienna Dunn:
(mckate's video of similar footage)
747 climbs the hill on the far side of the falls in this June 17, 2023 video by twelve22:
2023.06.19: 747 courts 909 video by twelve22:
mckate's video of the courting couple. It's important to stop for snacks to keep up one's strength.:
19 Jun 2023- 747 Leisurely Courts 909 (explore.org)-2
video by mckate
2023.06.21 - 2023.06.25: 747 can be seen in this video by professorearth posted to Instagram on June 26, 2023.
2023.06.25: 747 watches for fish in mckate's video. This is his favorite spot to watch for the arrival of fish.:
25 Jun 2023- 747 Watches for Fish (explore.org)-2
video by mckate
2023.06.29: 747 above the falls and below the Brooks Falls wildlife viewing platform video by JG:
Closer look at 747 - Explore.org June 29, 2023
video by JG
mckate captured this video of 747 on the lip. mckate's video description includes this information: "Looked like he was salivating or foaming at the mouth at little, so must know the salmon are close? I can't recall seeing him sit up there like that before. Hang in there big guy!"
29 Jun 2023- 747 Also Grows Impatient (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.06.30: Cruiser captured this video of 747 in the lower river.:
747 cruises Kats River View 30Jun23 explore.org
video by Cruiser
July 2023:[]
2023.07.03: mckate captured this video of 747 sitting near the jacuzzi:
3 Jul 2023- 747 Sits by the J (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.07.04: 747 possibly courting 225 in this video by mckate:
4 Jul 2023- 225 Nervously Walks the Spit Road (explore.org)
225 possibly being courted by 747 video by mckate
747 makes his first live cam documented catch of the season in mckate's video:
4 Jul 2023- 747 Makes His First Catch of the Season (explore.org)
video by mckate
747 showed off his independence catching 7 salmon in the jacuzzi in this video mckate captured:
4 Jul 2023- 747 Catches Seven J Fish (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.07.05: 747 trying to push 602 out of the falls was a 15 minute event that was trimmed down to 3 minutes in this video by mckate. mckate shared the following information about the interaction:
"602, who is suddenly a large boar, is hungry and really didn't want to go. Every time 747 would strut off to mark trees in celebration of his win, 602 would try to sneak back in. After been escorted away three times, 602 finally gave in, but you'll notice that he did some marking of his own at the very end. 747 could be pushing his luck to try this with 602 in another year or two. It could end in disaster as it did with 68 a few years ago."
5 Jul 2023- 747 Pushes Reluctant 602 From Falls (explore.org)
video by mckate
Jami created this gif of the interaction between 602 and 747 on July 5, 2023 (p 13:23). Former Bear shared this July 5, 2023 13:18 AKDT gif of the interaction between 602 & 747 (p 09/11/23 16:31).:
2023.07.06: Judy Simon (aka 4Grazer) captured this video of 747 in the early morning hours of July 6, 2023:
747 in the early hours July 6, 2023 bandicam 2023-07-06 08-37-13-231
video by Judy Simon (aka 4Grazer)
747 went for a ride in the swift current while on his way to check out the office in this gif created by Toodlebug (p 04:14).:
856 displays his dominance for 747 in this video captured by mckate:
6 Jul 2023- 856 Postures in Front of 747 (explore.org)
video by mckate
856 displaces 747 from the jacuzzi in mckate's video:
6 Jul 2023- 856 Moves 747 from the J (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.07.07: 747's restful time on what remains of the island was disturbed by 856 in this video captured by mckate.:
2023.07.08: 747's approach displaces 89 Backpack in this gif created by Blair-55 (p 19:26). 856 (near) and 747 (far) gif created by oregonshefisher (p 19:29).:
32 Chunk's and 747's interaction on July 8, 2023, video captured by jwkimages on Instagram
07.08.23 Chunk beats on 747. Makes his point. Both bears are ok. jwkimages on Insta-2
video by jwkimages on Instagram
2023.07.11: Even the largest bear known to use the Brooks River can be carried down river by the current; gif created by oregonshefisher (p 20:47). 747 brings his salmon by the Brooks Falls Low cam gif created by Cruiser (p 20:55).:
2023.07.12: 856 says "Pardon me, you're in my seat" to 747 in mckate's video:
12 Jul 2023- Pardon Me, You're in My Seat (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.07.13: 747 tries to get comfortable in this video mckate created:
13 Jul 2023- 747 Tries to Get Comfortable (explore.org)
video by mckate
856 disturbs 747's nap in this video captured by mckate:
13 Jul 2023- 856 Disturbs 747's Nap (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.07.15: 747 decides the does not desire 151 Walker fishing the lip above the jacuzzi. 747 then displaces 151 Walker and sends 151 Walker off the lip in this video by Cruiser.:
747 sends 151 Walker over the lip BF 15Jul23 explore.org
video by Cruiser
mckate captured this video of 747 pushing 151 Walker off the lip of the falls:
15 Jul 2023- 747 Pushes 151 Off Lip (explore.org)
video by mckate
747 takes a break in this video mckate captured:
15 Jul 2023- 747 Takes a Break (explore.org)
video by mckate
The dominance hierarchy story of the 2023 season continues to unfold in the two interactions captured by mckate on July 15, 2023.
In chapter one of today's display of dominance, 32 Chunk tells 747 he is not welcome in the far pool. 747 stood there for the longest time afterwards. Chunk seems to be enjoying throwing his weight around. mckate's video of the 32 & 747 interaction:
15 Jul 2023- 32 Tells 747 He's Not Welcome in Far Pool (explore.org)
video by mckate
Later, 856 Reminds 32 Who's Boss. mckate notes: "It looked like 856 came down the hill specifically to do this, so I suspect that he witnessed 32 keeping 747 from the far pool. 856 is always watching...". mckate's video of the 856 & 32 interaction:
15 Jul 2023- 856 Reminds 32 Who's Boss (explore.org)
video by mckate
747 close-up on the island July 15, 2023 video by Gabrielle Rose:
747 at Brooks Falls (7-15-2023)
video by Gabrielle Rose
747 gets cozy on nap island video by Gabrielle Rose:
747 Getting Cozy on Nap Island - Brooks Falls (7-15-2023)
video by Gabrielle Rose
2023.07.16: 32 Chunk does a sleepy boar dominance checkup while 747 just stares at him and 89 Backpack avoids confrontation gif created by Owl & Osprey (p 16:23).:
mckate captured this video of 32 Chunk disturbing 747's nap. Something 32 undoubtedly learned from 856.:
16 Jul 2023- 32 Disturbs 747's Nap (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.07.17: 32 Chunk pirates 747's fish in this video captured by mckate:
17 Jul 2023- 32 Steals 747's Fish (explore.org)
video by mckate
32 Chunk pirates from 747 again in this video mckate captured:
17 Jul 2023- 32 Pirates 747 Again (explore.org)
video by mckate
747 chooses not to disturb 83 Wayne Brother video by mckate:
17 Jul 2023- 747 Chooses Not to Disturb 83 (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.07.18: 32 Chunk harasses 747 again video created by mckate:
18 Jul 2023- 32 Harasses 747 Again (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.07.19: Yes, even the big guy, 747 can pounce and Cruiser created this gif to preserve the evidence for eternity (p 07:39). 747 may require a long nap after exerting all that energy!:
32 Chunk puts on a dominance display for 747 in this video captured by mckate:
19 Jul 2023- 32 Puts on Dominance Display for 747 (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.07.21: 32 Chunk disturbs 747's nap again, not long after he booted him from the jacuzzi in this video captured by mckate:
21 Jul 2023- 32 Disturbs 747's Nap Again (explore.org)
video by mckate
821 pushes 17 into the jacuzzi where 747 is fishing video by mckate.:
21 Jul 2023- 821 Pushes 17 into the J (explore.org)
video by mckate
747 snoozing away video captured by Gabrielle Rose:
747 Snoozing Away - Brooks Falls (7-21-23)
video by Gabrielle Rose
747 napping after snacking video by Gabrielle Rose:
747 Napping After Snacking - Brooks Falls (7-21-23)
video by Gabrielle Rose
2023.07.23: 32 Chunk holds 747 hostage video by mckate. This went on forever because Chunk seemed to go into salmon coma and forgot what he was doing. 747 was eventually able to sneak away.:
23 Jul 2023- 32 Holds 747 Hostage (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.07.25: 402's yearling slips the lip and gets 747 in trouble in this video mckate captured:
25 Jul 2023- 402's Cub Slips Lip, Gets 747 in Trouble (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.07.26: 747 gives 480 Otis the obligatory greeting in mckate's video:
26 Jul 2023- 747 Gives 480 Obligatory "Greeting" (explore.org)-2
video by mckate
2023.07.28: Gwynne created this gif of 747 charging 26's spring cub and 26 coming to her cub's defense (p 09:47):
747 chases 26 away in this video mckate captured:
28 Jul 2023- 747 Chases 26 Away (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.07.29: 747 disturbs 151 Walker's nap in this video captured by mckate:
29 Jul 2023- 747 Disturbs 151's Nap (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.07.31: 747 makes a splash in mckate's video:
31 Jul 2023- 747 Makes a Splash (explore.org)
video by mckate
August 2023:[]
2023.08.03: 634 Popeye tricks 747 out of a fish video captured by mckate:
3 Aug 2023- 634 Tricks 747 Out of Fish (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.08.04: 747 is unimpressed with this catch, possibly a trout, in this video captured by mckate.:
4 Aug 2023- 747 Unimpressed with His Catch (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.08.07: 747 takes his time, savored every bite of the fish and left nothing for the complaining gulls in mckate's video:
7 Aug 2023- 747 Takes His Time (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.08.10: 747 searches the lower river in this video captured by mckate;
10 Aug 2023- 747 Searches for Lower River Scraps (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.08.13: Bearoplane_747 created this gif (p 08/19/23 22:47 #1).:
2023.08.14: 164 "Bucky Dent" reluctantly moves for 747 in this video captured by mckate:
14 Aug 2023- 164 Reluctantly Moves for 747 (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.08.15: 747 denies 164 "Bucky Dent" admittance to the far pool in this video mckate captured. mckate's video provides a great example of how fast these fat boars can move.:
15 Aug 2023- 747 Denies 164 Admittance to Far Pool (explore.org)
video by mckate
747 reprimands 164 "Bucky Dent" in mckate's video. After numerous attempts to move 164, 747 had kind of resigned himself to fishing with Bucky for most of the evening. Then all hell broke loose when Bucky went for a fish that 747 thought had his name on it. Funny that 747 thought he could spot the long gone fish after the kerfuffle. Bucky finally looked somewhat chastened as he stood by the rock on 747's return.:
15 Aug 2023- 747 Reprimands 164 (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.08.16: 164 "Bucky Dent" continues to fish near 747 in this video captured by mckate. mckate shared the following information in the description of her video:
"I know they aren't quite a close as they look here, but it seems like 747 is being surprisingly tolerant. I really thought he'd jump 164 after they went for the same fish, but he didn't seem concerned. Since he hasn't had much luck in running Bucky off, maybe he's decided to just tolerate him. I also wonder if he isn't a little proud that Bucky is emulating him. Can bears feel flattered?"
16 Aug 2023- 164 Continues to Fish Near 747 (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.08.17: Bearoplane_747 created this gif of 747 from the Riffles cam & this gif of 747 from the Brooks Falls Low view cam (p 22:11). Bearoplane_747 shared this information with her gifs:
"I always love to watch as 747 leaves for the night, for one he's so slow and steady we can get a great look at how fat he is getting but also it just means I get to look at him longer. It's also nice he leaves by the same path many nights so we can compare him throughout the season.
Here's a couple gifs from tonight of the big guy making his way to his bed for the night."
But then this unexpectedly happened...747 diverting from his usual flight path...? August 17, 2023 gif created by Bearoplane_747 (p 22:18).:
2023.08.19: 747 chases 128 Grazer out of the far pool in this video captured by mckate:
19 Aug 2023- 747 Chases 128 Out of the Far Pool (explore.org)
video by mckate
Bearoplane_747 created this gif (p 22:42). Bearoplane_747 created this gif (p 23:24).:
2023.08.20: 747 gif created by oregonshefisher (p 22:15).:
747 bites 164 "Bucky Dent" in this video mckate captured. Fortunately it didn't appear to leave a wound, but Bucky sure was ticked. 128 Grazer (retreats to the top of the falls) and 151 Walker (remains by the far wall) decided to stay well out of the fray.:
20 Aug 2023- 747 Bites 164 (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.08.21: 747 with his left paw up gif created by Gwynne (p 08:49).:
2023.08.22: 128 Grazer shows the boys, 747 (near) and 151 Walker (far) how it's done in this video captured by mckate:
22 Aug 2023- 128 Shows the Boys How It's Done (explore.org)
video by mckate
Bearoplane_747 created this gif of 747's nightly departure of the river (p 21:52).:
2023.08.28: 747 came through camp, walking right down Park Ave, where some rangers live. Ranger Max, a bear tech tried to haze him. 747 looked over his shoulder and then completely ignored Max; Ranger Naomi Boak's August 28, 2023 12:53 comment with NPS photograph. A cam viewer asked: "Curious- what does 'hazing' him look like?". Ranger Naomi Boak replied at 13:07: "Yelling at him, kicking some gravel his way. For most bears, that would be enough to start running away.":
2023.08.31: 747 on the morning of August 31, 2023 NPS photograph by Ranger Naomi Boak. Ranger Naomi shared this information about 747's morning activities: "747 was on the lower river just before he went to the falls. He walked through camp and came out to the lower river, where we had a bunch of people rescuing a boat that had lost hydraulics" (p 16:23).:
32 Chunk's August 31, 2023 morning return to the Brooks River from his August walkabout made for some highly anticipated cam viewing today. As Ranger Naomi shared, 747 spent his early morning strolling through Brooks Camp and the lower river as 32 Chunk made his post-walkabout return to the falls. However, 747 eventually made his way to the falls where 32 Chunk was still fishing when 747 arrived to fish the falls and the "big bear meet up" ensued. How will the Brooks River hierarchy play out in this 2023 fall season? Just like in late spring/early summer...only time will tell. Equally important to note today is that 856 is still out on walkabout, so his influence in the hierarchy may change some things when he returns for the 2023 fall season!
mckate captured this video of 747 and 32 Chunk. This was the first time they've seen each other since July when Chunk was making 747's life difficult by waking him up from his naps and stealing his fish. Chunk moved from the conveyor belt to meet 747, but there were no fireworks. 747 moved in to take the conveyor belt and 32 went to the office.:
31 Aug 2023- 747 and 32 Meet (explore.org)
video by mckate
32 Chunk and 747 had been quietly fishing the far pool for some time when 747 decided it was time to properly confront 32. 32 Chunk really just wanted to finish his fish, but responded to 747's challenge. 747 eventually seemed to feel that he won the standoff, but when he began to walk away Chunk did too. This encounter between these two large dominant boars appears to be a draw. mckate captured this video of their interaction. In true 747 fashion, 747 initiated this encounter with 32 Chunk after this afternoon's play-by-play had ended.:
31 Aug 2023- 747 Decides to Confront 32 (explore.org)
video by mckate
Rae_Rae captured this gif of 747 confronting 32 Chunk on August 31, 2023 (p 16:28).:
32 Chunk later tests 747's resolve, possibly attempting to displace 747 from the conveyor...but 747 stood his ground and did not budge in this video captured by mckate.:
31 Aug 2023- 32 Tests 747's Resolve (explore.org)
video by mckate
Bearoplane_747 created these gifs (#1 & #2) of 747 departing the river for the night (p 23:40).:
September 2023:[]
2023.09.01: 32 Chunk wants 747's spot in this video captured by mckate. 32 is tired of being stuck in the office. 747 says, "No!" and 32 stomps back to his spot.:
1 Sep 2023- 32 Wants 747's Spot (explore.org)
video by mckate
32 Chunk begs for 747's fish in this video mckate captured. 747 said, "No!" and the chest punching commenced. They appear pretty equally matched, but would this battle of the big boars go to 747 because, while 747 lost his fish, held his spot. 164 "Bucky Dent" was watching it all with great interest.:
1 Sep 2023- 32 Begs for 747's Fish (explore.org)
video by mckate
Call_Me_Maeby created this gif of 747 and 32 Chunk's showdown that transpired when 32 Chunk was begging for 747's fish as 164 "Bucky Dent" pays close attention (p 18:29). Call_Me_Maeby also created this slo-mo gif of the interaction between 747 and 32 Chunk (p 18:50). Call_Me_Maeby shared that watching this squabble in slo-mo, 747 & 32 Chunk didn't really put their mouths on each other, but instead just screamed into each other's mouth.:
32 Chunk keeps 747 on this toes in this video captured by mckate:
1 Sep 2023- 32 Keeps 747 on His Toes (explore.org)
video by mckate
Cruiser created this gif of 747 and 32 Chunk (p 21:13). Following this interaction, 747 sulked away and left to mark some trees (Call_Me_Maeby p 21:28). Cruiser created this gif of 747 scent marking trees (p 21:23).:
Cruiser captured this video of 747 scent marking the trees after being annoyed by 32 Chunk.:
747 scent marks after being annoyed by 32Chunk BF 01Sep23 explore.org
video by Cruiser
A bold 164 "Bucky Dent" pushes his luck splashing 747 in this September 1, 2023 video by mckate:
1 Sep 2023- 164 Pushes His Luck with 747 (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.09.02: Gwynne created this gif of 747 with his magic paw up again (p 08:09). Bearoplane_747 created this gif of 747 (p 09:20). Call_Me_Maeby created this gif of 747 contemplating a nap (p 11:23). Call_Me_Maeby also created these gifs (#1 p 11:18 & #2 p 11:28) of 747 napping.:
mckate captured this video of 747's break on the island.:
2 Sep 2023- 747 Takes a Break on the Island (explore.org)
video by mckate
Meeps created these gifs of 747: #1 napping on his rock pillow & #2 napping on what remains of the island (p 14:30).:
32 Chunk wanted 747 out of the conveyor, 747 exited, and Blair-55 created these gifs (#1 & #2) (p 13:24).:
mckate captured this video of 747 giving 32 Chunk his spot in the conveyor:
2 Sep 2023- 747 Gives 32 His Spot (explore.org)
video by mckate
MaryMOtis 2016 created this gif of 32 Chunk successfully fishing with 747 (near) (p 16:19). MaryMOtis 2016 created this gif of 747 with a fish & 32 Chunk (far) (p 16:24). 747 (near) & 32 Chunk (far) backing up in this gif created by MaryMOtis 2016 (p 16:45). 32 Chunk (left) & 747 (right) gif created by MaryMOtis 2016 (p 17:14).:
32 Chunk gives 747 the conveyor, TWICE! in this video captured by mckate:
2 Sep 2023- 32 Gives 747 the Conveyor Belt Twice (explore.org)
video by mckate
32 Chunk accuses 747 of stealing his fish in mckate's video:
2 Sep 2023- 32 Accuses 747 of Stealing His Fish (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.09.03: 32 Chunk puts on a dominance display for 747 video captured by mckate:
3 Sep 2023- 32 Puts on a Dominance Display for 747 (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.09.17: 747 sends 32 Chunk back to his corner in this video captured by mckate. 747 seems like he's just about had it with 32's challenges.:
17 Sep 2023- 747 Sends 32 Back to His Corner (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.09.20: 747's mere movement displaces 503 from the far pool in this video mckate captured:
20 Sep 2023- 747 Moves 503 Out of the Far Pool (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.09.24: 856 (right) charges 747 (left) on the evening of September 24, 2023 gif created by Pablo Hablo (p 09/25/23 06:26). 747 responded with his characteristic head-down but not backing up at all.:
October 2023:[]
2023.10.07: 2023 Fat Bear Week Match 7 - Presenting the paladins of portly pulchritude, our huge hulking heroes: 128 Grazer and 747! A daring and dauntless dame, 128 Grazer is a fine example of Ursus chonkus. 747, the Brodignagian behemoth of a bear holds the heavyweight title, 2022 #FatBearWeek Champion. These two dominant forces collide on the river and in this match! While the ground shakes beneath their paws, don't let it shake you!
The results are in! 128 Grazer grounded the bearoplane, and Bear Force One, 747, never made it off the runway. 128 set her sights on success and removed the reigning champ from the competition with 66,687 votes vs 9,925 votes.:
How 747 Colbert Got His Nickname:[]
747's identification number is a topic of discussion due to his size and it's resemblance to a Boeing 747 wide-body jet. 747 was given his identification number in 2004 when he was a subadult bear, long before the size he would grow to be as an adult boar.
747 has also been referred to as Colbert. This name does not appear in any of the Bears of Brooks River books. It does appear on the KNP&P Flickr Galleries . Ranger Roy Wood provides some insight into how 747 got this nickname Colbert at approximately 23:38 into this live chat from Luray, Virginia on November 8, 2017 .:
747's Colbert nickname was inspired by the ear imperfection he shares with Stephen Colbert. 747's right ear was a little different than his left ear, it was asymmetrical, it sort of stuck out a little bit. If you watch Stephen Colbert you will see that his ear also has a little outward, downward...it's different from his other ear. 747's misshapen ear was an identification tool the rangers used to identify 747 before he grew into his identification number. Stephen Colbert points out a lot that his ears don't match up, so rangers using Colbert to remind them which bear was 747 when trying to identify the bears probably does not hurt Stephen's feelings. After 747 lost the 2021 Fat Bear Week competition during season 7 of Late Night with Stephen Colbert, Stephen Colbert learned why 747 is nicknamed "Colbert" (the 2021 Fat Bear Week segment begins at approximately 8:00 into the video).
Colbert Loses Fat Bear Week, Biden May Mint A Trillion Dollar Coin
Video credit: The Late Show with Stephen Colbert
Fun Facts About 747[]
- 747 shares an identification number with a jet airplane. Bear monitoring staff assign bear identification numbers to independent bears when they are first observed three times during official bear monitoring sessions in the same season. When 747 was identified as an independent subadult in 2004, the bear monitoring staff were assigning numbers in the 700 series. There was no way at that time to know that 747 would grow to be the size of a 747 jet airplane. It is a mere coincidence that 747 literally "grew" into his identification number. 747 is one of the largest brown bears you will ever see.
- 747 has been a contender in the 2014 to 2019 season Fat Bear contests that are hosted by KNP&P, Being one of the largest brown bears, the largest that uses the Brooks River, has yet to earn him the title of "Fat Bear". Maybe 2020 will provide Fat Bear contest voters with perfect vision and 2020 will be 747's year to win!....Well 2020 did turn out to be 747's year to win the Fat Bear Week competition.
Known Courting & Mating:[]
2009:[]
Unknown sow: 747 mated with an unknown sow[]
June 2009:
June 26, 2009: On 6/26/2009, park visitor bocaflip photographed 747 mating with an unknown sow, photos #1, #2, #3 and #4. Mike Fitz said he did not recognize the sow in this 1/22/2020 comment.
2010:[]
410: 747 Courted & Attempted Mating with 410:[]
July 2010:
July 22, 2010: Jim & Deb Chagares captured these photographs of 747 courting / attempting to mate with 410: #1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 , #6 , #7 , & #8 .
2011:[]
94: 747 Mated with 94:[]
747 and 94 mated in 2011 but 94 did not return to the Brooks River with cubs in the 2012 season.
2015:[]
128 Grazer: 747 Courted & Mated with 128 Grazer:[]
June 2015:
747 mated with 128 Grazer in June 2015. 128 Grazer did return to the Brooks River with 3 spring cubs in the 2016 season. Could one or more of her 2016 litter by 747's offspring? Mike Fitz captured this footage of 747 courting 128 Grazer in 2015:
2019:[]
900: 747 Courting 900 (after interrupting 503 Cubadult & 900 mating):[]
July 2019:
July 26, 2019: 747 interrupts 503 Cubadult and 900 mating on July 26, 2019 video by Lani H:
July 26, 2019: 747 courting 900 after interrupting 503 Cubadult and 900 mating July 26, 2019 video by Lani H.:
2020:[]
482 Brett: 747 & 482 Brett Courting[]
July 2020:
July 10, 2020: The gentle giant 747 courted 482 Brett during the 2020 season. Mckate's 7/10/2020 video "482 Brett and 747 share a romantic meal."
_89_Backpack_(near)_and_unknown_July_16,_2021_gigf_by_LunaCre.gif){kind=link}
_and_856_(right)_July_25,_2021_gif_by_LunaCre.gif){kind=link}
_July_27,_2021_gif_by_LunaCre.gif){kind=link}
_and_801_(far)_August_6,_2021_gif_by_LunaCre.gif){kind=link}
_and_480_Otis_(far)_August_7,_2021_gif_by_LunaCre.gif){kind=link}
_and_an_unknown_boar_(left)_August_23,_2021_gif_by_LunaCre.gif){kind=link}
_and_32_Chunk_(far)_September_6,_2021_gif_by_LunaCre.gif){kind=link}
_and_856_(far)_September_8,_2021_gif_by_LunaCre.gif){kind=link}
_and_151_Walker_(left)_September_13,_2021_gif_by_LunaCre.gif){kind=link}
_and_856_(left)_September_18,_2021_gif_by_LunaCre.gif){kind=link}
_and_89_Backpack_(far)_September_19,_2021_gif_by_LunaCre.gif){kind=link}
_and_747_(right)_August_29,_2022_gif_by_LunaCre.gif){kind=link}
2023:[]
225: 747 & 225 Courting (?)[]
July 2023:
Was 747 courting 225 in this video by mckate?
4 Jul 2023- 225 Nervously Walks the Spit Road (explore.org)
747 courting 225? video by mckate
909: 747 & 909 Courting[]
June 2023:
747 was observed courting 909 on multiple days in June 2023:
June 16, 2023 & A Week or so Prior: 747 was observed courting 909 for a week or so before June 16, 2023 per Brooks Lodge's June 16, 2023 08:25 Facebook post:
909 was observed being courted by 747 for a week or so before June 16, 2023 per Brooks Lodge's June 16, 2023 09:25 Facebook post.
June 19, 2023: twelve22 captured this video of 747 courting 909.:
Known Relatives:[]
There are no known relatives at this time.
Genetics Study Samples Obtained:[]
2005 & 2006: Successful samples (hair & tissue) by Wildlife Biologist Tamara Olson[]
747 was successfully sampled in 2005 and 2006 with both hair and tissue samples obtained by former KNP&P Wildlife Biologist, Tamara Olson.
2016: None, Successful or Unsuccessful[]
There were no darting attempts (successful or unsuccessful) in 2016 by Ranger Michael Saxton.
2017: None, Successful or Unsuccessful[]
There were no darting attempts (successful or unsuccessful) in 2017 by Ranger Michael Saxton.
2018: Awaiting Information from Ranger Michael Saxton[]
We are awaiting official genetics study samples obtained in 2018 from Ranger Michael Saxton or KNP&P staff.
2019: Awaiting Information from Ranger Michael Saxton[]
We are awaiting official genetics study samples obtained in 2019 from Ranger Michael Saxton or KNP&P staff.
A special thank you to StMango for the NPS photos from the 2012 Brown Bears of Brooks Camp iBook.
A special thank you to Xander-Sage for the gif created of the NPS photos from the 2012 Brown Bears of Brooks Camp iBook.