Alaska Facebook Group Boosts Wildlife Interest

Millions worldwide celebrated Alaska's 'Fat Bear Week', witnessing captivating livestreams of bears feasting on salmon. Close to Anchorage, a Facebook group called Muldoon Area Trail Photos and Videos has gained significant popularity, showcasing trail camera footage that includes both the majestic and sometimes brutal aspects of local wildlife, such as wolves hunting moose. The group, co-managed by Donna Gail Shaw, features a range of animals, from lynx to bears, and has seen its followers grow nearly sixfold since September. Joe Cantil, a retired tribal health worker, initiated the group after observing wildlife during a hunting trip and later collaborating with wildlife officials. The diverse wildlife population in Anchorage includes approximately 350 black bears, 65 brown bears, and 1,600 moose, living alongside about 290,000 human residents. Despite some graphic content, the group also shares lighter moments, such as playful bear cubs, providing a balanced view of the natural world.