2017 Wildlife Photo Contest

Species: Polar Bear (ursus maritimus) | Location: Wapusk National Park, Manitoba, Canada

A Cubby Hole is a safe place for children to hide. This tender moment between a mother polar bear and her cubs shows her affectionately caring for your young ones. They have just recently emerged from their dens in early March and with temperatures ranging from -35C to -55C photography conditions were extremely difficult. This family will stay close to their den for a couple of weeks until the cubs are strong enough to make the trek to sea ice, where mother can resume hunting for seals.

About The Photographer

Debra Garside is a professional nature photographer specializing in wild horses, horse culture and bears. She resides in Turner Valley, Alberta where she is co-owner of the Garside Wilson Gallery and proud owner of four adopted mustang horses.