June 24, 2013 - "Fortress of the Bear" Sitka

Each year, Sitka and communities throughout the State struggle with a productive solution to handling bears that have become urbanized. The research opportunities provided by the organization will create a comprehensive location where state and federal agents can work collaboratively to provide an effective alternative to the destruction of these animals. In order to accomplish this mission they have established a bear habitat.  They are utilizing 2 abandoned Clarifier Tanks which are 14 and 17 feet high and 3/4 of an acre each. The habitat allows for public viewing and an educational experience. "Fortress Of The Bear" is the largest private recyclers in Sitka, utilizing out-dated produce, dairy and bakery products from all the local markets. This allows the animals to be well fed with the waste then utilized in the compost. This saves the city and private businesses more than $10,000 yearly in waste disposal

June 15, 2009: A pair of orphaned brown bear cubs captured two years ago has settled into their new home at
 “Fortress of the Bear.”

June 24, 2013 - The twins have grown up!

Is he flexing his muscles for us???

Scary Bear!!!!!

"You talk'n to me ???

"I can balance this thing right in the middle of my tummy!" 

"I love this thing ! " 

"What can I do next ? "

"It is a beautiful day for a boat ride!" 

"Why ain't this thing mov'in ?

"I think I will just relax for awhile!"  

"Don't you think I am Beautiful! "  

The Brown bears of Southeast Alaska represent a distinct population, genetically dissimilar from any other bear. Research suggests these bears are remnants of a Polar bear population stranded in Southeast Alaska following the last ice age.

They have adapted to the rain forest environment and learned specific behaviors and marvelous survival skills. They successfully hunt everything from mountain goats to seals. Their ability to adapt sometimes brings them into conflict with their upright Human neighbors.  The goal is to seek a solution that is better than simply shooting them.  "Fortress of the Bear" is accomplishing this in a very successful way!