Bear Advisory Issued For Northern Composite Island

Date: July 9, 2008
Contact: Gus Martinez, District Ranger, 907-697-2230

This notice is to advise kayakers of an incident involving two brown bears that occurred on north Composite Island in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, on June 30, 2008.  A single kayaker was preparing a meal when the bears approached him.  The person immediately stowed his food in his bear cannister and climbed a rock. One bear approached within five feet and investigated his gear.  The person spent about 30 minutes defending his property from the bear and eventually was able to deter the bear by throwing rocks.  Both bears eventually left the area.  The kayaker left without any further incident and no property damage was reported.

Due to this activity, the National Park Service recommends that kayakers avoid camping on Composite Island.  This advisory will expire on July 30, 2008. Campers are reminded to secure and protect their food properly and to report any bear encounters to the Visitor Information Station at 697-2627.