ADOLESCENT BROWN BEAR

The boreal forest or taiga of Finland is one of Europe's largest areas of wilderness. During summer, brown bears cross the border from Russia looking for food. I spent two nights in hides at Martinselkosen Eräkeskus, just south of the Arctic Circle, watching more than 50 bears. This adolescent has not yet developed the bulk of an adult bear and his glossy coat is well illuminated by low evening sun.

F/7.1, 1/800th second, ISO 320
Accepted: Wrekin 2011