03/22/2026
Who catches more salmon during daylight hours and who is more efficient at night, Spirit bears or Black bears?
A study done in 2009, showed “that the white (Spirit) bears are about 30% more efficient at catching salmon in rivers than Black bears, but only during daylight hours. At night, Black bears have a slight advantage."
Dr. Tom Reimchen and his grad. student at the time, Dan Klinka, that conducted the study, then talked about how “this advantage strengthens the argument that the persistence of the white colour phase is linked to salmon availability”. Dr Reimchen went on to say that “Widespread declines in salmon numbers—from high commercial fishing quotas in the region—and ongoing industrial deforestation continue to compromise the future of this striking bear,”
In the 17 years since this study, we are definitely seeing fewer Spirit Bears.
Shrouded in mystery, legend, and the mists of their rainforest home, the ethereal beauty of the Spirit Bear, serves as a reminder that we all need to do our part to help combat climate change and to give these very rare bears, space and respect.
*The photos I'm sharing below were taken with a 500 mm lens and cropped, for the protection of this bear.*
