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Celebrating Fat Bear Week: A Look Behind the Scenes
Fat Bear Week has officially commenced, marking its 10th annual celebration. This exciting event aims to crown the most impressive hibernator of 2024, currently indulging in salmon at Alaska’s Katmai National Park. From October 2 to October 8, millions of viewers flock to Explore.org‘s live streams showcasing Brooks River, a prime feeding ground for brown bears as they prepare for winter. Last year alone saw over 1.3 million participants casting their votes while enjoying real-time footage of these magnificent creatures.
“There’s no universal solution for camera placement,” explains BJ Kirschhoffer, a conservation technologist collaborating with Explore.org. “We adapt our setups based on the environment—bolting cameras to rocks when possible or using large screws in sandy areas.” His team has honed their skills in adapting equipment without access to local hardware stores.
Kirschoffer notes that Brooks Falls presents relatively straightforward logistics compared to other locations managed by Explore.org, such as underwater coral reefs and owl nests. The park attracts numerous visitors who come not only for fishing but also for bear watching. An elevated platform near the river allows spectators a safe vantage point while enabling Kirschoffer’s team to mount cameras directly onto it during Fat Bear Week.
The camera views replicate what one would see standing right at Brooks Falls,” he adds.
However, these celebrated bears do not inhabit easily accessible areas—especially during winter when snow blankets the forests. Consequently, bear cams must be robust enough to endure harsh weather conditions and maintain power over extended periods. At Brooks Falls, this involves utilizing both off-grid and on-grid camera systems. Despite frequent strong winds in the park that could suggest potential wind energy sources, Kirschhoffer reveals that high wind speeds often hinder their effectiveness.
“We experimented with wind generators,” he shares, “but nature’s raw power can be overwhelming.” Being close to Bristol Bay means experiencing some remarkable weather phenomena.
Fortunately, affordable and dependable solar energy has emerged as an effective solution for keeping cameras operational nearly around-the-clock. Regular maintenance is essential; Kirschhoffer estimates repairs are necessary about twice yearly at Brooks Falls due primarily to wind or water damage. Other environments like marine settings can be even more challenging on equipment and may require annual servicing; ideally though repairs are needed every couple of years across most sites.
The technology behind these cameras might seem advanced; however many setups—including those used during Fat Bear Week—are surprisingly standard.
“Most of our equipment consists of security cameras,” Kirschoffer states since they are designed specifically for outdoor use.”
These installations often feature “Pan-Tilt-Zoom” capabilities allowing operators real-time adjustments along with windshield wipers suited perfectly for damp conditions at Brooks Falls. Kirschoffer mentions having utilized products from various leading security camera brands; while home surveillance systems typically capture mundane activities like package deliveries or dog walkers—they could also handle broadcasting an internationally adored fat bear competition if needed!
“Being part of something so unique feels special,” says Kirschoffer enthusiastically.”The locations we choose are often remote or costly travel-wise so providing free access through our feeds allows people who can’t visit firsthand an opportunity—a truly rewarding experience!”
The excitement continues as voting remains open until October 8 through theFat Bear voting bracket , but thanks again largely due Kirschhoffer’s efforts alongsideExplore . org , fans can enjoy live views from Brooks Falls all year long!
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