Lunch with Mama Bear & her COY
Witnessing a mother grizzly bear with her cubs is an experience everyone should have at least once. It’s even more special when she’s with her COY—cubs of the year—seeing them explore their environment for the very first time. These newborn grizzly cubs are cute and incredibly playful, making the sight of them even more memorable. Watching a mother’s tenderness alongside the energetic antics of her cubs is quite a spectacle, especially considering they are all apex predators!
That day, patience was key. Mama grizzly had spent her morning fishing for salmon and was getting ready to settle down and rest with her cubs. Having an experienced guide makes all the difference on a trip like this one. These experts spend their summers camping out, tracking the bears, and knowing exactly where to find them. After spotting this family, my guide had us wait safely on a glacier, keeping a respectful distance. The mother grizzly was aware of our presence, keeping a close eye on us. However, after some time, she determined we were not a threat and finally laid down to rest in the middle of a lush meadow. From her vantage point, she could see any potential danger from far away and had multiple escape routes—truly a smart mama.
Once our guide was certain she had fallen asleep, we carefully moved to a better position, allowing us to observe and photograph from a closer vantage point. While the mother bear dozed, her cubs were still full of energy, playfully tumbling around, completely unbothered by her nap. It was an absolute delight watching them strike funny poses, lost in their own little world. Capturing those moments through my lens was an unforgettable experience—one that truly showcased the beauty, intelligence, and playful spirit of these magnificent creatures!
Looks like the mama bear taught her cubs to say their prayers before bedtime!
