E-Xhibition - A grizzly confrontation
Bears and wolves often share the same territory and encounters between the two mega-fauna are infrequent, but not unusual. Deep in the mountains of northern USA, a grizzly feeds on the carcass of an elk, frozen in the snow. Unbeknown to the bear, one of America's most powerful predators, a pack of grey wolves are running a routine surveillance of their territory and the inevitable confrontation occurs. At first, the bear defends the carcass, which could be its last major meal before spring. But the wolves are equally determined and take comfort in the strength of the pack. One on one, the bear would prevail but against the pack, the odds are stacked more evenly. The outcome is no foregone conclusion. The question is, which of these two great predator species will prevail?
Taking on an adult grizzly could be considered a leap of faith ...
As the alpha female (left) slows her pace, the alpha male is unable to calm his enthusiasm for the confrontation. Winter is a difficult time for wolves, with food scarce and a big family to feed. The risks of taking on the bear will be weighed against the potential rewards. The meat from an adult elk will keep the pack strong for many days.