OCTOBER 2005

Cover image copyright Dennis Olivero. As the sea ice vanishes during the summer months in Hudson bay, local polar bears are forced onto land for a four month fast. The geography of the coast line near Churchill, Manitoba favors the earliest ice formation beginning in November each year. Normally solitary, Polar Bears congregate in this area anxious to return to the ice, to once again hunt seal, their main energy source.

Sparring events occur when bears congregate together and are a favorite subject for photographers. Biologist believe bears are releasing pent up energy and anxiety or exercising to regain fitness for the upcoming months spent wandering the ice. Bears may also be in the process of sizing up their own strength and power compared to other bears in preparation for the breeding season some months away. Although energetic bouts are noted and vocalizations commonly accompany wrestling matches, bears are rarely injured in these early November disputes. Eventually, one or both bears become overheated and simply lays down to rest and cool on the ice. This particular wrestling match lasted over twenty minutes, and was one of the highlights of the trip November 2004.

To find out more about Dennis, please visit his website at www.northernlightnaturephotography.com.