480 Otis October 2021 NPS photo
Adult Male ~ Master of Patience and Efficiency
Year First Identified: 2001 as an older subadult or young adult, believed to be 4 to 6 years old
Year Last Observed: 2023
Offspring Of: Not known
Genetics Study Samples Obtained: 480 Otis was successfully darted in 2006 by former wildlife biologist Tamara Olson. On October 5, 2016, Ranger Michael Saxton made an attempt to secure a proper darting position in close proximity to 480 Otis, but was unable to attempt darting. 480 Otis was possibly successfully darted by Ranger Michael Saxton on October 7, 2018.
WHERE IS 480 OTIS? Mike Fitz and Ranger Naomi Boak Explore the Possibilities of 480's Location:[]
480 Otis Answers The Question......480 Otis Is BACK!, July 26, 2021:[]
Identification:[]
2010 Bears of Brooks River book & 2012 Brown Bears of Brooks Camp iBook: 480 has a dark blonde coat, tan tipped claws, and some scars on both sides of his neck. His ears are wide set and his right ear is floppy. His muzzle is long, straight, and narrow. In the fall months, his body is walrus-shaped and he has a relatively thick, wrinkled neck.
2014 Bears of Brooks River book: Same information as above in 2010 & 2012 editions, with the following additional information:
In 2013 he had a prominent scar above his right eye.
2015 - 2016 Bears of Brooks River books: In early summer, 480 has a medium to dark blond coat which darkens to brown with blonder patches in the fall. He has tan tipped claws, and some scars on both sides of his neck. His ears are wide set and his right ear is floppy. His muzzle is long, straight, and narrow. He also has a prominent scar above his right eye. In the fall months, his body is fat and walrus-shaped with a relatively thick, wrinkled neck.
2017 Bears of Brooks River book: Same information as above in the 2015 & 2016 editions, with the following additional information.:
In 2016, 480 returned to Brooks River missing two canine teeth.
Meet 480 Otis video by Mike Fitz:
2023 Fat Bear Week Information:
Otis is a medium-large adult male with a blocky muzzle and a floppy right ear. He has light brown fur in early summer. By autumn, his coat becomes grizzled brown and he sports a patch of blonder fur on his left shoulder.
Distinctive Behaviors:[]
2010 Bears of Brooks River book & 2012 Brown Bears of Brooks Camp iBook: 480, along with 218, uses some of the most efficient fishing techniques at the falls. He prefers the jacuzzi, but unlike many other bears, he is often tolerant of numerous other bears around him while he eats. These bears wait patiently for him to finish and eat any leftover scraps.
In September, he is one of the few bears that can successfully fish at Brooks Falls. Late in the season, he is often seen fishing the far pool.
2012 Brown Bears of Brooks Camp iBook: Additional information provided in the 2012 edition:
Despite the fact that 480 is neither as large nor aggressive as other male bears, during July 2011 he was rarely displaced from his preferred fishing spot in the jacuzzi. Even 856, arguably the most aggressive bear in 2011, rarely attempted to challenge 480 for this prime location. In September, 856 and other bears seemed less tolerant of him and / or more willing to challenge him over positions at Brooks Falls. This pattern continued in July 2012, and larger bears regularly displaced him from the jacuzzi.
2014 Bears of Brooks River book: 480 was first classified as an older subadult bear in 2001. He, along with #218, uses some of the most efficient fishing techniques at the falls. He prefers the jacuzzi, but unlike many other bears, he is often tolerant of numerous other bears around him while he eats. These bears wait patiently for him to finish and eat any leftover scraps.
In recent years he is one of the few bears that can successfully fish at Brooks Falls in September. Late in the season, he is often seen fishing the far pool.
Despite the fact that #480 is neither as large nor aggressive as other male bears, he was rarely displaced from his preferred fishing spot in the jacuzzi. However in recent years, other mature males have surpassed him in size. As a result, 480 has slipped down the bear hierarchy. Bears like 747 and 856 will now regularly displace him from his preferred fishing spots.
2015 - 2016 Bears of Brooks River books: He, along with 218, uses some of the most efficient fishing techniques at the falls. He prefers the jacuzzi, but unlike many other bears, he is often tolerant of numerous other bears around him while he eats. These bears wait patiently for him to finish and eat any leftover scraps.
Despite the fact that 480 is neither as large nor aggressive as other male bears, he was rarely displaced from his preferred fishing spot in the jacuzzi from 2005-2011. However in recent years, other mature males have surpassed him in size. As a result, 480 has slipped down the bear hierarchy. Bears like 747 and 856 will now regularly displace him from his preferred fishing spots and 814 will steal fish from him.
He is one of the few bears that can successfully fish at Brooks Falls in September. Late in the season, he is often seen fishing in the far pool. 480 may be one of the older bears along the river, but he was once a more playful bear. In 2003, for instance, he was observed playing with many bears including 489 and 634.
2017 Bears of Brooks River book: Additional information provided in the 2017 edition of the book:
In 2016, 480 returned to Brooks River missing two canine teeth. The injury somewhat inhibited his ability to “high-grade”–to pick out the fattiest parts of the salmon (skin, brain, and roe)–but did not stop him from putting on the necessary weight for winter survival. An experienced brown bear, missing teeth are just one more obstacle 480 has overcome to survive another year.
2018 Bears of Brooks River book: 480 Otis is missing two canine teeth. The injury appears to inhibit his ability to “high-grade”–to pick out the fattiest parts of the salmon (skin, brain, and roe)–but did not stop him from putting on the necessary weight for winter survival. An experienced brown bear, missing teeth are just one more obstacle 480 has overcome to survive year after year.
Life History:[]
480 Otis is believed to be the oldest male bear (boar) to regularly using the falls, he faces many challenges one of which is missing teeth. He is missing two canine teeth one on the upper jaw and one on the lower jaw on the opposite side. When you watch him eat fish you can see he does so with a little more difficulty than other bears.
480 Otis is currently not known to have any offspring that use the river, In 2006-7 a DNA study was done by collecting hair and tissue samples and no known offspring of Otis were found. A new DNA study is underway at Brooks River and we may find out if he in fact does have offspring that use the river.
480 Otis has won the Fat Bear contest in four years: 2014, 2016 , 2017, and 2021.
2001:[]
480 Otis was initially identified as an older subadult or young adult. If that estimate of his age was correct, he would have been 5.5 or 6.5 years old in 2001.
Biography information provided for 2023 Fat Bear week stated: "Otis was four to six years old when he was first identified in 2001"
2002:[]
September 2002:[]
480 Otis in September 2002 NPS photo provided by Ranger Mike Fitz:
October 2002:[]
2003:[]
2003 Season:[]
In 2003, 480 Otis was observed playing with many bears, including 489 Ted and 634 Popeye .
2006: Adult Male[]
July 2006:[]
2006.07.??: July 2006 photo of 480 Otis by Andy Romang.
2007: Adult Male[]
September 2007:[]
2007.09.15: Ranger Jeanne's photo of 480 Otis that is included in the 480 Otis KNP&P flickr gallery .
2008:[]
July 2008:[]
2008.07.25: Daria Kotys photos 7/25/2008 photos of 480 Otis, #1 and #2.
2009: Adult Male[]
2009 Season:[]
2009.??.??: 480 Otis displaces 747 from the jacuzzi gif from 2018 Bearcam Stories: The Elders of Brooks River Explore Medium blog by Mike FItz.:
July 2009:[]
2009.07.??: Brooks camp visitor hahatry captured this July, 2009 video that features 856 in the jacuzzi, 6 Headbob fishing the lip, 480 Otis (near on the left) and 16 Cinnamon (near on the right). Identification of these bears was made by Mike Fitz on 2/22/2021. Mike's comment: "Yes, that is 856 in the jacuzzi, 16 Cinnamon is waiting for 480 Otis's leftovers at center bottom. 6 Headbob is on the lip.
2009.07.11: Jim Balkins 7/11/2009 photo of 480 Otis.
2009.07.14: Ranger Roy Wood's photo of 480 Otis that is included in the 480 Otis KNP&P flickr gallery .
September 2009:[]
2009.09.12: Ranger Jeanne's 9/12/2009 photo of 480 Otis in the office.
2009.09.17: Ranger Roy Wood's photo of 480 Otis that is included in the 480 Otis KNP&P flickr gallery.
2009.09.19: Ranger Roy Wood's photo of 480 Otis that is included in the 480 Otis KNP&P flickr gallery .
2010: Adult Male[]
480 Otis was included in the 2010 Bears of Brooks River book on page 18.:
July 2010:[]
July 2010:[]
2010.07.??: Matt Hirt's July 2010 video of 634 Popeye and 480 Otis fighting over jacuzzi rights. At 1:09 a violent altercation begins with 634 Popeye having the upper hand. Viewer Discretion advised.
October 2010:[]
2011: Adult Male[]
2011 Season:[]
2011.??.??: 480 Otis can be seen fishing at the falls multiple times standing and sitting below the mid-falls, 2011 video by wildatheartbill.
2012: Adult Male[]
480 Otis was included in the 2012 Brown Bears of Brooks Camp iBook:
2012 & Early 2013 Seasons:[]
Kara Stenbrg shared 2012 photos of 480 Otis with information about his between end of season 2012 and early season 2013 right ear and right forehead scar injuries.
July 2012:[]
2012.07:26 or PRIOR: 480 Otis in seen in a video that was uploaded on 7/26/2012 by J. Scott Parker. 480 can be viewed at 0:42-0:57 standing below the falls, 1:04-1:20, 2:12 in front of 747, 2:36-2:51, and 3:33 in the foreground. Mike Fitz confirmed the ID on 1/26/2020.
2013: Adult Male[]
2013 Season:[]
2013.??.??: Kara Stenbrg shared 2013 photos of 480 Otis with information about his between end of season 2012 and early season 2013 right ear and right forehead scar injuries.
2013.??.??: Leslie Bodily Photography captured this photo of 480 Otis in 2013 with his fresh forehead wound and his newly floppy right ear.
July 2013:[]
2013.07.??: Leslie Ford Photography captured this photograph of 480 Otis with his fresh forehead wound.
2013.07.10: SandyK29's photo of 480 Otis that is included in the 480 Otis KNP&P flickr gallery .
2013.07.14: 480 Otis with his fresh forehead wound photograph by KNP&P Ranger Aaron Camire.
2013.07.15: 480 Otis with a fresh wound above his right eye [Warning: slightly graphic image]. It was also the first year he showed up with a droopy right ear.ear. 07/15/2013 photo by Ranger Roy Wood.
2013.07.18: Holly Sweet captured this photograph of 480 Otis during her trip to Brooks Camp (p 01/26/2020 06:36 ). Holly also captured this photograph of 480 Otis (p 04//05/2017 16:52 ). Holly has a special "Sad Bear " connection to 480 Otis..
Please request Holly Sweet's permission prior to using her 480 Otis photographs!
2013.07.20: Theresa Bielawski shared two 7/20/2013 photos of 480 Otis on 6/7/2022, #1 and #2. His forehead scar can be seen in photo #2. Theresa Bielawski shared five additional 7/20/2013 photos on 6/7/2022, #1, #2, #3, #4 and #5.
Please request Theresa Bielawski's permission prior to using her photographs!
Ranger Jeanne's photo of 480 Otis that is included in the 480 Otis KNP&P flickr gallery .
2013.07.21: Ranger Jeanne's photo of 480 Otis (left) with 634 Popeye (right) that is included in the 480 Otis KNP&P flickr gallery .
September 2013:[]
2013.09.30: Juergen's gif of 480 Otis
2014: Adult Male[]
480 Otis was included in the 2014 Bears of Brooks River book on page 22.:
2014 Season:[]
480 Otis during the 2014 season by luvnature.:
July 2014:[]
2014.??.??: Greenninjacom captured this close-up video of 480 Otis patiently fishing along the wall in July 2014.:
2014.07.??: 480 Otis is seen fishing in his office in this July 2014 video by HermosaPaul.
2014.07.02: NPS photo of 480 Otis:
2014.07.05: NPS photo of 480 Otis:
2014.07.12: NPS photo of 480 Otis:
2014.07.16: 480 Otis falling asleep video by JB Grace.:
2014.07.23: NPS photos of 480 Otis:
2014.07.27: 480 Otis and 747 don't want to share the jacuzzi video by HDOnTap.:
September 2014:[]
2014.09.01: NPS photo of 480 Otis:
2014.09.12: NPS photos of 480 Otis:
2014.09.20: BP Bear Lover's snapshot of 480 Otis (BP Bear Lover previously added to 480's wiki page on October 7, 2014 ). BP Bear Lover's snapshot of 480 Otis in his office (BP Bear Lover previously added to 480's wiki page on October 7, 2014 ).:
2014.09.19-09.25: Park visitor Laszlo Molnar posted this video which is believed to be from 9/19-9/25/2014 based on a 2nd video that had those dates.
2014.09.22: NPS photo of 480 Otis:
2014.09.25: 480 Otis in his office with a salmon, 9/25/2014 photo by Arvind Agrawal.
October 2014:[]
2014.10.02: 480 Otis loves to eat video by DTB. Please turn up the volume for the full impact of DTB's sense of humor!.:
2014.10.07: 480 Otis has the hiccups video by DTB:
BP Bear Lover's snapshot of 480 Otis (BP Bear Lover previously added to 480's wiki page on October 7, 2014 ).:
2014.10.08: Zen Otis. Too Much Loved Katmai Brown Bear video by DTB.
2014.10.12: Cam viewer, Juergen captured the following gifs of 480 Otis :
480 Otis and 83 Wayne Brother fishing in close proximity in the lower river gif by Juergen
480 Otis finds a fish near the shore gif by Juergen
480 Otis walks on land gif by Juergen
2015: Adult Male[]
480 Otis was included in the 2015 Bears of Brooks River book on page 61. 480 also appears on page 3, How to Use this Book. 480 Otis is the star of page 7, Let's Get Fat. Information about 480 Otis can also be found on 415's page, page 85.
2015 Season:[]
2015.??.??: NSBoak shared these snapshots of 480 Otis from the 2015 season. (Previously added to 480 wiki page by Lani H #1 , #2 & #3 on October 27, 2016).:
2015.??.??: 747 displaces 480 Otis from the jacuzzi gif from 2018 Bearcam Stories: The Elders of Brooks River :
2015.??.??: 480 Otis "talking" to 747 video by Rockatte. "480 Otis is sick and tired of 747 taking his fishing spot in the jacuzzi. So he fights back by....muttering. ":
June 2015:[]
2015.06.26: The Brooks River Tattle-er June 26, 2015 edition by MChez with 480 Otis news.:
July 2015:[]
2015.07.10: 480 Otis made his season debut at Brooks Falls on 7/10 2015, video by Gizmo. He can be seen in the far pool farthest to the left.
2015.07.12: Volunteer in Park Anna-Marie AZ captured this photo of 480 Otis (far, right) with 410 (near, left).:
Please request Anna-Marie AZ's permission prior to using her photographs!
Nancy Clark captured 7/12/2015 video of 480 Otis (left) 32 Chunk (near) and 814 Lurch (far) on 7/12/2015.
2015.07.14: Volunteer in Park Anna-Marie AZ captured these photos (#1 480 near with 410 far , #2 480 far with 410 near 01 & #3 480 far with 410 near 02 ) of 480 Otis with 410.:
Please request Anna-Marie AZ's permission prior to using her photographs!
2015.07.15: Cam viewer Gizmo describes this 7/18/2015 video of 480 Otis. "480 Otis, normally a peace loving fellow, got testy a few times with some of the more annoying or pushy bears... here with 755 Lefty and 747."
2015.07.18: 480 Otis' interactions with 775 Lefty and 747 video .:
2015.07.22: Near 32:30 of this 7/22/2015 live chat video , Ranger Roy and Ranger Mike talk about whether Otis was ever dominant. Discussion about reading bear behavior to determine the "winner" of a challenge between bears begins near 25:05.
2015.07.23: 480 Otis sitting in the plunge pool, 7/23/2015 photo by Ranger Roy Wood.
2015.07.28: An extreme closeup photo of 480 Otis by Glenn E. Bilek.
Late July 2015: Theresa Bielawski shared these late July 2015 photos of 480 Otis on 6/6/2021, #1 and #2.
Please request Theresa Bielawski's permission prior to using her photographs!
September 2015:[]
2016.09.16: 480 Otis walks and eats his way up the Brooks River video by Mickey Williams.:
2015.09.23: 480 Otis is seen quite a bit in the lower river during this play-by-play with Ranger Mike and Ranger Roy. 480 Otis is the bear that can be seen at the very beginning of this video, but is also the star in other parts of the play-by-play.
October 2015:[]
2015.10.01: Mickey Williams catches 480 out of the river video :
2015.10.09: 480 Otis fishing at the falls video by JBirdyHome. JBirdyHome shared these thoughts with the video.:
"An usual activity for Otis who is usually spotted sitting in "the office" (the far end of the falls, under the hanging foliage) gazing patiently at the water for hours. But here he is meandering through the water. Perhaps the water level and force of the falls is too high and rough to fish and he chooses to inspect calmer waters."
2016: Adult Male[]
480 Otis was included in the 2016 Bears of Brooks River book on page 72.:
2016 Season:[]
In 2016, 480 returned to Brooks River missing two canine teeth. The injury somewhat inhibited his ability to “high-grade”–to pick out the fattiest parts of the salmon (skin, brain, and roe)–but did not stop him from putting on the necessary weight for winter survival. An experienced brown bear, missing teeth are just one more obstacle 480 has overcome to survive another year.
2016.??.??: Cam viewer's 2016 season snapshot of 480 Otis. #1 Lani H previously added to 480's wiki page on October 27, 2016 . #2 480 Otis swats a salmon ~ BBWonderdogs previously added to 480's wiki page on October 27, 2016 . #3 BBWonderdogs previously added to 480's wiki page on October 27, 2016 . GreenRiver captured this Fall 2016 snapshot of 480 Otis (left) with 151 Walker (right) (p 01/26/2020 06:01 ). Olddude shared this 2016 season snapshot of 480 (p 01/26/2020 07:08 ).:
2016.??.??: GreenRiver created this video from 2016 season 480 Otis snapshots. GreenRiver commented : :"In 2016, I remember getting upset with 747 because he wouldn’t leave Otis alone. But he wasn’t the only one!"
June 2016:[]
2016.06.30: At approximately 10:00 AKDT, 480 Otis returned to the Brooks River for the 2016 season. Mickey Williams captured these three videos:
Part 1 video by Mickey Williams:
Part 2 video by Mickey Williams:
Part 3 video by Mickey Williams (approximately 11:18 AKDT):
The Brooks River Tattle-er June 30, 2016 edition (#1 & #2 ) by MChez.:
July 2016:[]
2016.07.??: Theresa Bielawski shared three July 2016 photos of 480 Otis on 6/6/2020, #1, #2 and #3.
Please request Theresa Bielawski's permission prior to using her photographs!
2016.07.??: 480 Otis photo by Mocha (previously added to 480 Otis' wiki page by Lani H on October 27, 2016 ).
2016.07.01: Juergen's gif of 480 Otis. 2016.07.03: 480 Otis and 410 in the far pool video by Mickey Williams:
480 Otis chillin in the office video by Erum Chad (aka Erie):
2016.07.03: 480 Otis and 32 Chunk gif created by Juergen ♥:
(Wiki wouldn't permit the gif to be loaded in a gallery, file may be too large ~ 2020.01.26 LTC)
410 (near) with 480 Otis (far) video by Mickey Williams.:
2016.07.06:
480 Otis slowly eats his fish video by Mike Fitz:
480 Otis needs a nap video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
2016.07.07:
480 Otis running video by Martina:
480 Otis running video by CherylB (aka BearNecessities):
2016 07 07 13 07 50 Bear Otis 480 showing how it's done
480 Otis showing how it's done July 7, 2016 video by CherylB (aka BearNecessities)
480 Otis running video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
2016.07.08: 480 Otis briefly stands on the lip of Brooks Falls video by Mickey Williams:
4 59pm 07.08.2016 Otis 480 briefly stands on the lip by Mickey Williams
480 Otis briefly stands on the lip of Brooks Falls July 8, 2016 video by Mickey Williams
2016.07.10: 634 Popeye (near the island) and 480 Otis (near the jacuzzi) both have their own fish when this video by Rob Rager begins. 634 Popeye high grades his fish and then steals the rest of 480 Otis' fish from him. Be sure to turn your sound up to hear 480 Otis vocalizing his displeasure with being forced to share. 480 Otis being the accomplished fisher bear that he is returns to the jacuzzi to fish again.:
Popeye Steals From Otis July 10, 2016 by Rob Rager-0
480 Otis & 634 Popeye July 10, 2016 video by Rob Rager
2016.07.13:
11:10: 480 Otis fighting sleep video by Mickey Williams:
11 10 am 07.13.2016 480 OTIS fighting sleep video by Mickey Williams
480 Otis fighting sleep July 13, 2016 video by Mickey Williams
2016.07.15: 480 Otis showing his cowboy walk video by st mango. Is the other bear 274 Overflow or the bear known as NOT274 (aka 801 or 68)?:
2016.07.16 - 2016.07.21: Truman Everts captured this photograph of 480 Otis (p 08/30/16 08:24). Truman Everts captured this photograph of 480 Otis (p 09/02/16 16:54). Truman Everts captured this photograph of 480 Otis (right) with 801 (left) (p 08/31/16 07:43). Truman Everts captured this photograph of 480 Otis (p 09/06/16 17:02). Truman Everts captured this photograph of 634 Popeye (p 08/30/16 14:51). Truman Everts captured this photograph of 634 Popeye (front) with 480 Otis (back) (p 09/07/16 18:47). Truman captured this photograph of 634 Popeye (near) with 480 Otis (far) (p 10/28/2019 17:43 ). Truman Everts captured this photograph of 480 Otis (p 10/08/2016 18:54 ).:Truman Everts shared this 7/18/2016 photo of 480 Otis in chat on 3/26/2020 and this 7/16/2016 photo of Otis on 3/26/20. Truman Everts shared this 7/17/2016 photo of 480 Otis in chat on 5/7/2020. Truman Everts shared a photo of 480 Otis on 6/6/2021. The photo was taken between 7/16-7-21/2016. "But is he "Art"???480 (aka: "Otis") is about 20 years old (give or take a year) here, in his "Office" in 2016."
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
2016.07.17: Truman Everts captured this photograph of 480 Otis (p 08/30/16 15:20).:
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
2016.07.19: GreenRiver captured this snapshot of 480 Otis (p 01/26/2020 05:31 ).:
EricsXtremeVideo filmed 480 at Brooks Falls on 7/19/2016. 801 is the very scarred bear in the opening scene.This video only shows 2 male bears at the falls, 480 and 801. The blonde sow seen downriver appears to be 261. 273 and her yearling 809 are seen on the beach at 5:42.
2016.07.24: 480 Otis and the raven video by Martina:
480 Otis splashes the raven video by Marie.:
NSBoak captured this snapshot of 480 Otis splashing the raven. (NSBoak previously added to 480 wiki page on October 27, 2016). CarolineB created this painting of 480 Otis splashing the raven (p 01/25/2020 22:26 ):
August 2016:[]
2016.08.05: GreenRiver captured this snapshot of 410 (near), 747 center, and 480 Otis (far) (p 01/26/2020 06:07 ).:
2016.08.06: 128 Grazer decided 480 Otis looked at her funny and then grazered 480, video by st mango.:
2016.08.08: GreenRiver captured this snapshot of 480 Otis (p 01/26/2020 07:36 ).:
On 8/8/2016, 480 Otis is seen catching a fish in the far pool and backing up to his office. Turn up your volume for this creative video by Gizmo, "480 Coming Through."
September 2016:[]
2016.09.??: Park visitor and cam viewer, Shanna Carr (aka KenaiRiver) shared these photos from her trip to Brooks Camp of 480 Otis.: On February 20, 2017 at 17:13 Shanna shared this photo with these thoughts: "Hello bear friends, I think I found a picture of what Otis is dreaming about this very minute as he is snuggled in his cozy den. He thinking, "only 35 fish today, I need to get out of this bubble bath, move Walker out of my Office and catch some more fish." Love our Zen Bear". On February 22, 2017 at 16:49 Shanna shared this photo of 480 Otis and a photo of 503 Cubadult with these thoughts: "Here's a fun comparison! Otis and 503 in the Jacuzzi fishing in almost the same spot. Just goes to show you how brave 503 was to jump into the Big Boys fishing spot. He caught fish here too!! Enjoy!!" On March 7, 2017 at 17:42, Shanna shared these photos (#1 & #2 ) of 480 with these thoughts: "Hello All, Since we're all missing "our bears" and in particular The "Zen Bear", here are a couple of fun pics of Otis... love the intensity in 'his office' and in a bath of bubbles.. Hope they are all snug and warm in their dens.... maybe dreaming of salmon patties!! On April 20, 2017 at 14:32 Shanna shared this photo of 480 Otis with these thoughts: "Here's another one, Otis up at the Falls. His coat has such a reddish color ( in mid September ) , not how we normally see him. But, do see how and why he was the 'Fat Bear' of 2016.. sorry, Sumo Holly!! hahaha." On April 25, 2017 at 20:28 Shanna shared this photo of 480 Otis with this information: "An interesting one of Sir Otis. A rare brief view of his mouth and teeth. Not wide open but can see a peek of those teeth, or not." On July 9, 2018 at 08:31 Shanna shared these photo (#1 & #2 ) of 480 Otis with these thoughts: "The discussion about Otis tonight, how his age and teeth may be influencing his fishing, made me think of pictures taken in Sept of 2016. I found several close ups taken of his tooth/ teeth as he was eating. It's hard to tell if in one of them if his canine has even broken the tough skin of the salmon. He has not let this stop him though!! He was Mr Fat Bear of 2017!! We love our Zen Bear!" On January 20, 2019 at 16:04 Shanna shared this photo of 480 with these thoughts: "Have loved all the contributions to the 'Love Otis Day'. Sometimes it's hard to tell if he's looking for fish or just taking a little bear nap. Either way, he is always magnificient!"
Shanna Carr (aka KenaiRiver) generously granted her permission for her photos to be used on the bearcam wiki. Sadly Shanna passed away in 2019 and is no longer with us to grant permission for her photos to be used in other ways. Please honor and respect the memory of this cherished member of the bearcam community and refrain from using her photos without her permission. If a time comes when her family extends the permission for her photos to be used, we will edit this informaiton to reflect that.
2016.09.01: 480 Otis and 747 dustup video by David S.:
747 and 480 Otis duke it out video by Melissa Freels.:
2016.09.02: 151 Walker Life lessons from 480 Otis video by Melissa Freels:
2016.09.05: 480 Otis and 151 Walker de-escalation video by David S.:
Explore Recorder video footage of the same 151 Walker & 480 Otis interaction begins at approximately 28:18 of this video .:
Brooks Falls - Katmai National Park, Alaska Cam 09-05-2016 19 00 01 - 19 59 56 Explore Recorder video-0
2016.09.06: GreenRiver shared this snapshot of 480 Otis (p 09/06/2016 19:06 ). Bookmom captured these snapshots (#1 & #2 ) of 480's successful spash :& grab (p 09/06/2016 18:41 ). MaryUT captured this snapshot of 480 Otis (p 09/06/2016 18:37 ).:
2016.09.12: 480 Otis (background) with 151 Walker (foreground) snapshot by NSBoak. (NSBoak and Lani H previously added to 480 Otis wiki page on October 27, 2016).:
2016.09.14: Otis ghosting around a fight to get exactly where he wanted to go anyway. It all started with 747 coming after Otis pushing him down river, 856 decides to remind 747 who is top bear and Otis glides away while roaring ensues video by Lyn Gulbransen:
Shanta created these September 14, 2016 gifs (#1, #2 & #3) of 480 Otis and 151 Walker (p 08/18/23 18:49):
2016.09.16: Lisa Robertson (aka Larinor) shared this 9/16/2016 photo of 480 Otis.
Please request Lisa Robertson's (aka Larinor) permission prior to using her photographs!
.jpg "480 Otis September 16, 2016 photo by Lisa Robertson (aka Larinor).jpg (1.38 MB)")
2016.09.19: 9/19/2016 photo of 480 Otis in the office by Taja Raja.
2016.09.24: 480 Otis video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
2016.09.28: 480 Otis snapshot (previously added to 480 wiki page on October 27, 2016 by Lani H .).:
October 2016:[]
2016.10.01: 480 Otis reclaims the office in the video by TDown:
2016.10.05: Ranger Michael Saxton made an attempt to secure a proper darting position in close proximity to 480 Otis, but was unable to attempt darting video by Melissa Freels:
David S captured this video of the attempt to dart 480:
On October 25, 2016 during a live chat with Ranger David Kopshever and Ranger Leslie Skora, Ranger Michael Saxton discusses his October 5, 2016 darting attempt of 480 Otis. This discussion topic can be heard at approximately 32:35 into this video of the live chat. At approximately 44:40 Ranger Saxton discusses how he felt when he was that close to 480 Otis while attempting to dart him and if he believed 480 Otis was aware of his presence:
Watch Everything created this video in celebration of 480 Otis winning the 2016 Fat Bear Week contest.:
2016.10.07: 480 Otis fishing in the lower river video by Erum Chad (aka Erie).:
2016.10.12: Yes, even 480 Otis has mastered fishing the lip of Brooks Falls. Video by Martina.:
The one and only ) 480 Otis successfully fishing the lip of Brooks Falls October 12, 2016 video by Martina
2017: Adult Male[]
480 Otis was included in the 2017 Bears of Brooks River book on page 75.:
April 2017: []
2017.04.01: Martina created this video of 480 Otis doing "Imagine":
2017 Season:[]
2017.??.??: 480 Otis during the 2017 season video by Deanna Dittloff:
2017.??.??: 480 Otis during the 2017 season video by GreenRiver.:
2017.??.??: (July 24, 2017 or prior) Alisa Esala captured this video of 480 Otis protesting 32 Chunk's arrival. 480 Otis is happily fishing the jacuzzi when 32 Chunk arrives and decides he wants the same spot. Otis lets Chunk know verbally how unhappy he is.:
2017.??.??: (August 11, 2017 or prior): Alisa Esala captured this video of 480 Otis fishing near the fish ladder.:
2017.??.??: 480 Otis in a river of salmon video by isai rod on instagram posted May 8, 2018.
2017.??.??: Cruiser created this snapshot collage of 480 Otis' 2017 epic nap (p 01/26/2020 06:45 ). GreenRiver created this artwork of 480 during the 2017 season (p 01/26/2020 15:55 ).:
July 2017:[]
2017.07.??: ElaineDE shared these photographs (#1 , #2 , #3 , #4 & #5 ) of 480 Otis from her July 2017 trip to Brooks Camp (p 01/26/2020 12:58 ). ElaineDE shared this 7/21/2017 photo of 480 Otis on 4/11/2020.
Please request ElaineDE's permission prior to using her photographs!
2017.07.??: Cheekyjoy share two photos of 480 Otis on 6/7/2021, #1 and #2. In photo #2, 480 is seen sitting and 806 is standing above the falls. "I forgot about Otis's day yesterday... here are a couple from 2017. Love this guy."
Please request Cheekyjoy's permission prior to using their photographs!
_and_806_(near)_July_2017_photo_by_Cheekyjoy.jpg "480 Otis (far) and 806 (near) July 2017 photo by Cheekyjoy.jpg (1.68 MB)")
2017.07.05:
480 Otis returns to the Brooks River cowboy walking into the 2017 season: Video by Brenda D Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
Video by Erum Chad (aka Erie) (Published 2017.07.05) :
480 Otis in the riffles video by Ruxandra Nicolae (aka Rux )
2017.07.06: Truman Everts shared a 7/6/2017 photo of 480 Otis on 6/6/2021. "One more before bed: Searched for a "new" (unseen) 480 (aka: "Otis")...found this one deep in the files. Not perfect, but new! "
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
480 Otis from office to falls to bed video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
480 Otis video by Victoria White:
2017.07.07:
480 Otis video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
480 Otis gets hit in the muzzle by a fish video by CherylB (aka BearNecessities):
2017 07 07 17 19 11 OTIS 480 Fish hits him in the nose-2
480 Otis gets hit in the muzzle by fish July 7, 2017 video by CherylB (aka BearNecessities)
2017.07.09:
480 Otis courting an adult female video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
Could Brenda D's video above be the prequel to Anna-Marie's July 9, 2017 photo of 480 Otis mating that was taken at Brooks Camp?
Anna-Marie shared some additional information about her photo:
The photo "was taken from the Treehouse. Otis and the female (might be 289) were under the walkway between the treehouse and the riffles platform ". "Right after the mating, both bears showed up down by the riffles and moved up toward the Falls. Another bear followed her up the path on the other side of the river and then Otis followed them! "
Please request Anna-Marie's permission prior to using her photos!
32 Chunk and 480 Otis faceoff video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
2017.07.10: 480 Otis video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
2017.07.11: Mark Larson's 7/11/2017 photo of 480 Otis.
2017.07.12: 480 Otis and 32 Chunk interaction video by Melissa Freels:
2017.07.17:
856 displaces 480 Otis video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
480 Otis bluff charges 151 Walker video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
2017.07.20 - 2017.07.22: Park visitor and cam viewer, ElaineInDE captured this photo of 480 Otis sometime between July 20, 2017 and July 22, 2017.
2017.07.22: 480 Otis fishing in close proximity to 128 Grazer and her 3 yearlings, peacefully by over-protective 128 mom standards. 128 Grazer can be observed jaw popping in this video by CherylB (aka BearNecessities):
2017 07 22 23 16 32 Grazer & Yearlings right next to Otis fishing
128 Grazer & yearlings fishing right next to 480 Otis July 22, 2017 video by CherylB (aka BearNecessities)
2017.07.23: Bonnie Hankins (aka NutsBoutBears) captured this July 23, 2017 photograph of 480 Otis (p 01/26/2020 12:48 ). Bonnie Hankins (aka NutsBoutBears) also captured these photographs (#1 , #2 , #3 & #4 ) of 480 Otis on July 23,. 2017 (p 01/26/2020 12:57 ). Bonnie Hankins (aka NutsBoutBears) also shared this, her favorite 2017 photograph of 480 Otis, taken July 23, 2017 (p 01/26/2020 17:31 ).:Bonnie Hankins (aka NutsBoutBears) shared this 7/23?/2017 photo of 480 Otis on 6/9/2020. Bonnie Hankins (aka NutsBoutBears) shared two 7/23/2017 photos of 480 Otis on 6/6/2021, #1 and #2. "Otis demonstrating the ultimate zen and giving a passing salmon that didn't just right into his mouth the raspberry - July 23, 2017."
Please request Bonnie Hankins' (aka NutsBoutBears) permission prior to using her photographs!
.jpg "480 Otis July 23?, 2017 photo by Bonnie Hankins (aka NutsBoutBears).jpg (3.88 MB)")
_.08.jpg "480 Otis July 23, 2017 photo by Bonnie Hankins (aka NutsBoutBears) .08.jpg (1.24 MB)")
_.09.jpg "480 Otis July 23, 2017 photo by Bonnie Hankins (aka NutsBoutBears) .09.jpg (2.01 MB)")
Scammin shared this 7/23/2017 photo of 775 Lefty (near) and 480 Otis (far) on 3/29/2020.
_and_480_Otis_(far)_July_23,_2017_photo_by_Scammin_.jpg "775 Lefty (near) and 480 Otis (far) July 23, 2017 photo by Scammin .jpg (1.05 MB)")
2017.07.24: In a July 24, 2017 video by Alisa Esala, 480 Otis can be seen and heard protesting the arrival of 32 Chunk to the falls.
2017.07.27: 480 Otis and 151 Walker greeting below Brooks Falls video by angrboda:
2017.07.29: Mike Van Grouw's 7/29/2017 photo of 480 Otis eating his salmon below the falls.
August 2017:[]
2017.08.05: 480 Otis and 32 Chunk have a confrontation and 480 Otis takes a nap on the island in this video by Victoria White.:
The confrontation of the 32 Сhunk & 480 Otis and Otis naping at Brooks Falls ~ 2017 08 05 by Victoria White
32 Chunk and 480 Otis video by Melissa Freels:
2017.08.08: 480 Otis makes low energy entrance video by CASPER Pike (aka dcs1955):
480 Otis naps on the island & 32 Chunk displays his dominance video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
2017.08.09: Keli shared this snapshot of 480 Otis napping on the island (p 01/26/2020 13:11 ). KCanada shared this August 9, 2017 snapshot of 480 Otis napping on the island with the "Don't Wake The Bear" sign (p 01/26/2020 07.04 ).:
480 "Otis is no slouch when it comes to rest" in this Explore highlights video of his epic 14 hour nap.:
Early morning: 480 Otis sleeping on the island video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
480 Otis sleeping on the island for 12+ hours video by CherylB (aka BearNecessities):
2017 08 09 12 31 40 Otis 480 sleeping on the Island 12 + hours Explore.org
480 Otis sleeping on the island 12+ hours August 9, 2017 video by CherylB (aka BearNecessities)
Juergen's album of 480 Otis' lengthy nap on the island down river of Brooks Falls.
480 Otis wakes from his long nap and goes to fish in the jacuzzi, the far pool, and the office before heading upstream in this video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
September 2017:[]
2017.09.??: (Prior to September 22, 2017): On September 22, 2017 Melissa Freels shared this photo of 480 Otis. Melissa commented that she thinks 480 Otis "looks very regal here". Melissa also shared that 480 Otis was one of the two bears she found to be the most challenging to photograph, 747 being the other one.
Please request Melissa's permission prior to using her photos!
2017.09.??: (Prior to September 22, 2017): On September 22, 2017 Lesleezee shared this photo of 480 Otis (left) with 879 (right).
Please request Lesleezee's permission prior to using her photos!
2017.09.08: KCanada shared this September 8, 2019 snapshot of 480 Otis (p 01/26/2020 07:04 ).:
19:44: 480 Otis goes to the island to sleep video by Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA):
21:15: While 480 is sleeping video by Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA):
2017.09.09:
Approximately 06:32: 503 Cubadult meets 480 Otis video by Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA):
480 Otis approaches as 32 Chunk and 474 have a fight:video by angerbodha:
Martia's riffles view video :
Mike Fitz commented on 480 Otis approaching the altercation between 32 Chunk and 474:
Mike Fitz' September 10, 2017 08:00 comment :
In reply to: How often during your time at Brooks did you see another adult male like Otis approach two equally large males that were fighting?"
Mike's reply: "It's not a common sighting, but in the video of the fight Otis wasn't the only bear to approach. The other bears near the far pool--503, 68--approached the fight as well. I don't have a good explanation for this behavior. Perhaps it was curiosity or they sensed one or both bears could be vulnerable to getting displaced if they approached. I'm not sure."
Mike Fitz's September 10, 2017 08:01 comment:
In reply to: "Thanks Mike what are your thoughts on Otis reaction to the fight near him?"
Mike's reply: "I'm not sure why Otis approached, but I don't think it was to referee or otherwise intervene. 68 and 503 also moved close to the fight. Maybe they were curious and defensive at the same time?"
2017.09.10:
Early morning: 480 Otis asleep on the island then 480 wakes and goes to the office video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
11:38: 480 Otis confronts 474 video by Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA):
2017.09.12: 480 Otis video by Ratna Narayan:
2017.09.13: 32 Chunk, 480 Otis, and 856 video by Ratna:
2017.09.15: 480 is a master of snagging a salmon, sometimes they just jump into those giant paws, but not all of the salmon cooperate. Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA) captured one that got away in this September 15, 2017 video from approximately 16:25 AKDT.:
2017.09.16: 480 Otis retains control of the jacuzzi video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
2017.07.21: ElaineDE shared 7/21/2017 photos of 480 Otis on 4/11/2020, #1, #2 and #3.
2017.09.22: 480 Otis video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
2017.09.26: 274 Overflow begging from 480 Otis video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
83 Wayne Brother tries to displace 503 Cubadult from the jacuzzi, 480 Otis provides back-up to 503 video by Rockatte.:
2017.09.30 Approximately 16:40: 480 Otis departs the river slowly video by Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA):
October 2017:[]
2017.10.??: 480 Otis wins the 2017 Fat Bear Week contest. Cruiser created this image of 480 reveling in his win (p 01/26/2020 14:00 ).:
2018: Adult Male[]
480 Otis was included in the 2018 Bears of Brooks River book on page 76.:
2018 Season:[]
2018.??.??: Cruiser created this 2018 season gif of a stomping mad 480 Otis (p 01/26/2020 13:06 ).:
2018.??.??: Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) created this video of 2018 season observations of 480 Otis.:
2018.??.??: Melissa Freels captured these photographs (#1 , #2 & #3 ) of 480 Otis during the 2018 season (p 01/26/2020 18:16)
Please request Melissa Freels' permission prior to using her photographs!
2018.??.??: Theresa Bielawski shared four 2018 photos of 480 Otis on 6/6/2021, #1, #2, #3 and #4. Please request Theresa Bielawski's permission prior to using her photographs!
June 2018:[]
2018.06.??: Birgitt shared (p 01/26/2020 09:24 ), and Truman Everts approved this message (p 01/26/2020 09:39 ) these photographs (#1 , #2 & #3 ) that Truman Everts captured of 480 Otis in late June 2018.:
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
2018.06.18: Explore Medium Blog, 2018 Bearcam Stories: The Elders of Brooks River by Mike Fitz:
2018.06.29 13:37: 480 Otis returns to the Brooks River for the 2018 season:
Ranger Russ commented at 13:37 : "Word is that Otis is at the riffles!"
480 Otis returns to the Brooks River for the 2018 season video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
AND THE CROWD GOES WILD! At 16:23 KNP&P posted to their Facebook to announce the return of 480 Otis
"This day just keeps getting better. Who showed up at the Falls this afternoon? None other than the beloved 480! That's right "Otis," the oldest known male bear, at 22, has made his return for the season. "
Park visitor and cam viewer Lee (aka RiverPA) was lucky enough to be at Brooks Camp for the 2018 season return of the ever popular 480 Otis. Lee captured these 6/29/2018 photos of 480 making his way up river to Brooks Falls:
Photo #1 , Photo #2 , Photo #3 , Photo #4 , Photo #5 & Photo #6
Please request Lee's (aka RiverPA ) permission prior to using her photographs !
_.07.jpg "480 Otis June 29, 2018 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka River PA) .07.jpg (614 KB)")
_.08.jpg "480 Otis June 29, 2018 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka River PA) .08.jpg (540 KB)")
_.09_.jpg "480 Otis June 29, 2018 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka River PA) .09 .jpg (627 KB)")
_.10.jpg "480 Otis June 29, 2018 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka River PA) .10.jpg (740 KB)")
_.11.jpg "480 Otis June 29, 2018 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka River PA) .11.jpg (440 KB)")
_.12.jpg "480 Otis June 29, 2018 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka River PA) .12.jpg (449 KB)")
But wait!.....480 Otis also returned at a time when another special event was taking place in the Brooks Camp Visitor Center. Volunteer in Park and cam viewer Stacey was performing a very special ceremony for a very special park visitor. Stacey shared her story in this April 9, 2019 05:14 comment :
"Hi, everyone!
A few days ago, @mazey posted a wonderful video by @Martina of the 2018 return of Sir Uncle King 480 O T I S! (Link to video at bottom of post.)
Here's a related story
It was Friday, June 29, 2018, my third day volunteering at Brooks Camp. I was working in the Visitors Center, presenting a Junior Ranger badge to a visitor named Esme.
It was Esme's 10th birthday -- and for her gift, she had chosen to bring her entire family to Brooks Camp to see the bears. And on her birthday, she was receiving her Junior Ranger Badge.
So we're in the Visitors Center, and I'm presenting her with the badge as her family watches, and she's holding up her hand as I lead her through the Junior Ranger oath.
And it's a very solemn and joyful and auspicious moment.
And/but as I'm leading Esme through the oath, I'm also watching the BF cam on the TV in the Visitors Center -- and I'm seeing a large, blond bear on the island!
And as I'm leading Esme through the oath, I'm thinking, "Wait. Is that 480 O T I S?! What's he doing back? It's only the end of June!"
And that bear, 480 O T I S, *dove* into the jacuzzi, just as Esme completed her pledge!
And I started to cry (which the other rangers never let me forget), because Esme became a Junior Ranger just as 480 O T I S dove into the jacuzzi, and on her 10th birthday to boot!
And so, in addition, to her Junior Ranger badge, I also awarded Esme one of my very precious Bear Booster pins, for guests who went above and beyond in supporting the bears.
Because Junior Ranger Esme brought her family to Brooks Camp for her 10th birthday. And 480 O T I S showed up to celebrate, too.
And that is my story of 480 O T I S.
And here's the great video by @Martina. (Be sure to have your sound on..."
480 Otis cowboy walks to his "office: after being displaced from the jacuzzi by 747 in this video by Sue C.:
Sue C's 6/29/2018 video "Otis (480) & Scaredy Bear (755) Lookalikes!" 480 Otis is in the office on the left while 755 Scare D Bear is by the rock wall on the right.
June 2018 to July 2018:Edit[]
2018.06.21 - 2018.07.09: 708 Amelia was courted by 480 Otis sometime between June 21, 2018 and July 9, 2018 :
Please request Mocha's permission prior to using her photos!
July 2018:[]
2018.07.??: Park visitor, Mike Weagley, captured this July 2018 video of 603 (believed by some to possibly be early season 68) in the jacuzzi, 409 Beadnose and 775 Lefty on the lip (near to far), 747 in the far pool, 480 Otis and 755 Scare D. Bear by the "office" wall on the North side of the river.
2018.07.??: Mike Weagly also captured this July 2018 video that includes 854 Divot (1st bear seen), 409 Beadnose and 775 Lefty (near to far) on the lip, 603 (believed by some to possibly be 68 in early season) in the jacuzzi, 747 in the far pool, 480 Otis in the office, and 755 Scare D Bear in the river on the North side by the downriver end of the wall.:
2018.07.01: Truman Everts shared 7/1/2018 photos of 480 Otis in chat on 3/25/2020. In photo #1, Truman states "Quick Wed. afternoon drive-by drop-off for all my bear pals trapped inside...480 (aka: "Otis") just looks classic (right behind the jacuzzi)." Note: Cam viewers were at home socially distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic. In photo #2, Truman states "480 (aka "Otis") shows off "the tooth," during a late afternoon yawn in his office." Truman Everts shared two 7/1/2018 photo of 480 Otis on 6/6/2021, #1 and #2. Photo #1 comment "Looking for more lost treasures that slipped through the cracks. I know I posted one very similar to this, ages ago...so I normally wouldn't test your patience with this one too...but hey, it's 480 Otis Day, and we need pics 'til the cams go on on June 21st... I'm going to look a bit more before going out to dinner..." Photo #2 comment "Boudoir Photography 101. 480 seems to prefer to not look directly at the viewing platform...so as he remained in this position one day. I knew the snapshots I was taking, would become my favorites (of mine) of his dear face. And they have. Surely I've posted 3 or 4 very similar snapshots, from this encounter--over the years--but I think this favorite is probably "new."
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
2018.07.02: 480 Otis in the office with 747 in the far pool both fishing calmly...when 274 Overflow comes splashing in and slip sliding away video by Melissa Freels.:
2018.07.05: Not the Onion: 480 on the Lip video by Rockatte.:
2018.07.06: 480 Otis near the fish ladder video by Ratna Narayan.:
480 Otis and 755 Scare D Bear confrontation video by Ratna Narayan.:
2018.07.08: 480 Otis was observed at Brooks Falls in the early morning: LaniH created this video , complete with tubas playing in the background for Ranger Andrew, so be sure to turn the sound up for this one.:
2018.07.09: Juergen's 480 Otis video. Juergen shared this description in the video: "480 Otis did a potty break near its alternative fishing spot at the side of the Falls." ♥:
634 Popeye has 480 Otis "cornered" by the log against the falls and in the July 9, 2018 video by Alla Gill.:
2018.07.11: 480 Otis bites 801 on the butt video by LaniH:
RobNJ created this gif . GABear created this gif . :
2018.07.12: Bookmom shared these snapshots (#1 , #2 & #3 ) of 480 Otis (p 01/26/2020 08:43 ).:
2018.07.13: Cruiser's 7/13/2018 snapshot of 480 Otis.
Mid Summer 2018: Truman Everts shared a mid summer photo of 480 Otis on 6/6/2021. "First the bad news: I can't find the date (beyond that it's mid-summer, 2018) on this, and I believe it was posted previously. Now the good news: What's remarkable about this, to me, is that is is not a photo, per se...the resolution on the 4K video camera was good enough, that a still frame could be lifted from it that could pass for a regular photo! One of the bonuses of 4K video cameras! " Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
2018.07.17: 807 dares to splash 480 Otis video by mckate.:
2018.07.22: Flyer 7474 (aka SteveCA) captured this video of 83 Wayne Brother, 856, 32 Chunk and 480 Otis. 32 Chunk tries to move 480 Otis but 856 intervenes and runs 32 off.
2018.07.26: 480 Otis video by LaniH.:
2018.07.29: Shel captured these snapshots (#1 & #2 ) of 480 Otis (p 01/26/2020 14:15 ).:
2018.07.30: 801 and 480 Otis in "Will you stop looking at me!" video by Lani H.:
August 2018:[]
2018.08.07: 480 Otis and 503 Cubadult encounter video by Deanna Dittloff:
2018.08.09: 480 Otis and 503 Cubadult argument a draw video by McKate.:
480 Otis goes after 503 Cubadult by the island Part 1 Brooks Falls Low Cam view video by Birgitt.:
480 Otis goes after 503 Cubadult by the island Part 2 Brooks Falls High Cam view video by Birgitt.:
2018.08.10: 151 Walker plays with 503 Cubadult, gives 480 Otis a smooch video by mckate.:
2018.08.14: 480 Otis chases 128 Grazer off the lip video by Lani H.:
2018.08.15: 480 Otis with a salmon jumping all around him, gif created by Blair-55 .:
September 2018:[]
2018.09.??: Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) created this 480 Otis Commander in Faith video of 480 Otis observations from September 2018.
2020.09.06: Cruiser's 9/6/2018 gif of a "stomping mad" 480 Otis.
2018.09.08: In this 9/8/2018 video by Lani H, 755 ScareD catches a fish and as he walks by 480 Otis is bitten by him. 151 Walker decides to get in on the action and also bites 755 in the rump. 755 loses his fish and heads back to the far pool in hopes of catching another.
480 Otis bites 755 ScareD Bear, 151 Walker also gets a bite in and 755 loses his fish 9 8 2018, video by Lani H
Video by McKate:
KNP&P's September 8, 2018 tweet with NPS photo of 747 (near) and 480 Otis (far).: "We're entering the last few weeks of weight gain before Fat Bear Week commences. Here's a look at 747 (foreground) and 480 (background). Which bear seems to have gained the most weight so far this season?"
2018.09.10: 747 (largest bear sitting in the far pool), 480 Otis (licking the rock in the far pool), 856 (is the bear that catches the fish), and 634 Popeye (in the office) video by Birgitt:
2018.09.12: At approximately 16:15, 68 and 480 Otis Perform a Duet in G Major video by mckate. Title courtesy or Olga Mikhajlova. Be sure to have your sound on for the vocalizations of both bears.:
68 and 480 Otis video by Lani H. Be sure to have your sound on for the vocalizations of both bears.:
68 and 480 Otis sing a duet video by tsaneda. Be sure to have your sound on for the vocalizations of both bears.:
2018.09.13: 480 Otis, 151 Walker, 32 Chunk and 856 exchange video by mckate. 151 Walker begs from 480 Otis and gets jumped. 32 Chunk intervenes (and checks for leftovers) and 856 chases Chunk because only the top bear intervenes. :
2018.09.14: At approximately 17:11, Ratna Narayan captured these photographs (#1 , #2 , #3 & #4 ), the first photographs she captured of 480 Otis (p 01/26/2020 09.10 ).
Please request Ratna Narayan's permission prior to using her photographs!
2018.09.14 - 2018.09.17: Park visitor and cam viewer, Ratna Narayan captued these photos of 480 Otis during her trip to Brooks camp. Photos Ratna posted 03/12/2019 19:20 : #1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 , & #6 . Photos Ratna posted 05/28/2019 20:43 : #1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 , #6 & #7 (Note: #4 & #7 are duplicates of two photos posted 03/12/2019 19:20). Ratna shared this photo of 480 Otis. Ratna also shared this photo of 480 Otis. Ratna also captured this photograph of 480 (p 01/25/2020 08:04 ).. Ratna captured this photograph of 480 (p 01/25/2020 17:22 ). Ratna shared these photographs (#1 & #2 ) of 480 Otis; one with eyes opened and one with eyes closed (p 01/26/2020 12:52 ). Ratna also captured these photographs (#1 & #2 ) of 480 (p 01/26/2020 13:10 ). Ratna shared this close-up photograph of 480 (p 01/26/2020 13:11 ). Ratna got an even closer photograph of 480 Otis (p 01/26/2020 13:14 ). Ratna captured this photograph of 480 also (p 01/26/2020 13:21 ). Ratna captured this series of photographs (#1 , #2 & #3 ) of 480 Otis that shows him sitting down from three of his 4 sides (p 01/26/2020 13:43 ). Ratna also shared this photograph of 480 Otis (p 01/26/2020 18:41 ). Ratna Narayan also shared these photographs (#1 , #:2 , #3 , #4 , #5 & #6 ) of 480 Otis (p 01/27/2020 17:04 ). Ratna also captured these photographs (#1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 & #6 ) of 480 (p 01/27/2020 19:00 ). Ratna shared these photographs (#1 , #2 & #3 ) of 480 Otis (p 01/27/2020 19:13 ). Ratna also captured this photograph of 480 (p 01/27/2020 20:11 ). Ratna captured these photographs (#1 , #2 , #3 & #4 ) of 480 (p 01/27/2020 20.24 ).:
Please request Ratna Narayan's permission prior to using her photographs!
Park visitor and cam viewer, Ratna Narayan captured this photo of 503 Cubadult (near) with 480 Otis (far).:
Please request Ratna Narayan's permission prior to using her photographs!
2018.09.21: 747, 856 and 480 Otis have words in the far pool video by Birgitt:
2018.09.22: 480 Otis displaces 68 with minimal calorie expenditure video by McKate:
At 50:18 into this Explore Recorder video , 480 Otis tells 68 to move, but 68 (believed to be more dominant than 480) doesn't react very aggressively against Otis. 68 casually departs a few minutes later. 480 and 68 are two of the most beautiful bears in the fall when their new coats have grown in, but the rich color of their fall coats isn't well represented in this video.
Shel captured these snapshots (#1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 , #6 , #7 , #8 , #9 & #10 ) of 480 Otis (left) with 68 (right) (p 01/26/2020 13:34 ).:
2019.09.28: BREAKING NEWS! 480 Otis is observed on LAND! Lani H captures rare footage of 480 Otis out of the river in this video .:
2018.09.30: 480 Otis looks for spawned-out salmon in the Lower Brooks River in these NPS photos (#1 & #2 ) by Ranger Russ Taylor. 480 Otis eats a spawned-out salmon on the Lower Brooks River in these NPS photos (#1 & #2 ) by Ranger Russ Taylor. 480 Otis on the Lower Brooks River in this NPS photo by Ranger Russ Taylor.
October 2018:[]
2018.10.02: Outside online article, "The Glory of Otis, Fattest of the Fat Bears" 10/02/2018.
2018.10.07: 480 Otis napping in the lower river by LuvBears Bookmom shared this snapshot of 480 Otis napping on Down River Island on the morning of October 7, 2018 (p 01/26/2020 09:07 ). KCanada shared this October 7, 2018 snapshot of 480 Otis with the "Don't Wake The Bear" sign and 821 in the background (p 01/26/2020 07:04 ).:
480 Otis on October 7, 2018 Explore Recorder video .:
480 Otis was possibly successfully darted by Ranger Michael Saxton for the genetics study gif created by Cruiser (p 01/26/2020 06:30 ).
Ratna Narayan captured this video of Ranger Michael Saxton's attempt to dart 480 Otis.:
LaniH captured this video :
In this video by Lani H, you can see Ranger Michael Saxton retrieve the dart::
In this video by Lani H, 480 Otis walks up the river slowly towards the Falls and 879. He reaches 879 around the 6 minute mark. 879 is not so thrilled to see Otis, and shows an unusual lack of calmness for 879.:
2019: Adult Male[]
January 2019:[]
2019.01.20: Deanne Dittloff (aka deelynnd) created this video of 480 Otis and 503 Cubadult with the dancing salmon.:
2019 Season:[]
2019.??.??: Deanna Dittloff created this 2019 season video of 480 Otis.
2019.??.??: Xander-Sage-2 created this 2019 season snapshot collage of 480 Otis. (p 01/25/2020 10:44 ). GreenRiver created this art of 480 Otis during the 2019 season (p 01/26/2020 04:15 ). Phillydude captured these snapshots (#1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 , #6 , #7 , #8 , #9 , #10 , #11 , #12 ) of 480 Otis during the 2019 season (p 01/26/2020 04:30 ). Xander-Sage created this snapshot collage of 480 Otis (p 01/26/2020 09:19 ). Cruiser captured this snapshot of 480 Otis (near) with the 402 siblings, 503 Cubadult & 812 (p 01/26/2020 15:51 ). Xander-Sage created this gif of 480 Otis (near) and the unidentified adult male with the distinctive hump (aka "Humphrey") (p 01/25/2020 11:03 ).:
Martin Kerstin posted this 2019 Instagram photo of 480 Otis (near) and 755 ScareD Bear far.
July 2019:[]
2019.07.01: 480 Otis returned to the Brooks River for the 2019 season! Video by tm saneda (aka Shovelbum81)
Video by mckate:
Video by Cheryl B (aka BearNecesseties):
480 Otis in the office and far pool video by Lani H.:
Martina shared this collage of snapshots of 480 Otis on July 1, 2019. GreenRiver captured this moment in time and shared this snapshot of the other bears at the falls watching 480 Otis approach from the riffles (p 01/26/2020 02:28 ).:
2019.07.02: Truman Everts captured this photograph of 480 Otis in the riffles on July 2, 2019 (time not provided) (p 08/07/19 08:35 ). Truman Everts shared this 7/2/2019 photo of 480 Otis on 5/1/2020.
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
2019.07.04: Truman Everts captured this photograph of 480 Otis at 18:56 on July 4, 2019 (p 10/21/19 09:11 ). Truman Everts captured this photograph of 480 Otis at 19:04 on July 4, 2019 (p 12/08/19 01:03 ). Truman Everts also captured this photograph of 480 Otis on July 4, 2019 (p 08/07/19 09:39 ). Truman Everts shared this 7/4/2019 photo of 480 Otis on 4/10/2020. Truman Everts shared this 7/4/2019 photo of 480 Otis on land, 4/28/2020. Truman Everts shared this 7/4/2019 photo of 480 Otis on 4/29/2020. Truman Everts shared this 7/4/2019 photo of 480 Otis on 5/1/2020. Truman Everts captured this photograph of 480 Otis on July 4, 2019 at 19:12; this image provides a good view of 480's eyes (p 12/06/19 06:08 ). Truman Everts shared this 7/4/2019 photo of 480 Otis on 5/26/2020.
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
2019.07.05: Truman Everts captured this photograph of 480 Otis at 21:55 (p 12/10/19 23.53 ). Truman Everts shared this 7/5/2019 photo of 480 Otis on 4/3/2020. Truman Everts shared this 7/5/2019 photo of 480 Otis on 4/18/2020. Truman Everts shared this 7/5/2019 photo of 480 Otis on 4/25/2020. Truman Everts shared two 7/5/2019 photo of 480 Otis on 6/6/2021, #1 and #2.
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
Bear cam watcher and Brooks Camp visitor BearTreeHugr shared five 7/5/2019 photos of 480 Otis on 1/16/2021, #1, #2, #3, #4 and #5. BearTreeHugr commented about each photo. #1. First Impressions are Everything...We went to Brooks in early July 2019 and didn't know a single bear. We were thrilled to see six bears at the Falls that afternoon. We watched a couple of bears catch and eat fish from the J. Then this very blonde bear came down the hill and started strolling towards the falls. We couldn't help but notice his very blonde poofy ears and coat coloring. #2. He checked in at the Office, but decided that wasn't the best spot, so he kindly asked a young lad to step aside. #3. He settled into his spot where all could admire his handsome physique, basking in the sunlight. #4. This bear stood out amongst the others. #5. As we left the falls, we caught another view of him, not knowing how that side would later become the talk of the town.
Please request BearTreeHugr's permission prior to using their photographs!
_July_5,_2019_photo_by_BearTreeHugr_.02.jpg "480 Otis (left) July 5, 2019 photo by BearTreeHugr .02.jpg (944 KB)")
_July_5,_2019_photo_by_BearTreeHugr_.04.jpg "480 Otis (furthest) July 5, 2019 photo by BearTreeHugr .04.jpg (1.87 MB)")
_July_5,_2019_photo_by_BearTreeHugr_.05.jpg "480 Otis (back right) July 5, 2019 photo by BearTreeHugr .05.jpg (4.3 MB)")
2019.07.06: 480 Otis July 6, 2019 NPS photo by Ranger Tammy Carmack KNP&P Flickr.
2019.07.07 - 2019.07.08: NW Bear Love 92 captured these photographs (#1 , #2 , #3 , #4 & #5 ) of 480 Otis on July 7, 2019 & July 8, 2019 (p 01/26/2020 14:28 ). NW Bear Love 92 also captured this photograph of 480 Otis (p 01/26/2020 14:34 ). NWBearLove92 shared a photo of 480 Otis (right) with 68 (left) and a photo of 480 Otis alone on 5/18/2020. NWBearLove92 shared a 7/7/2019 photo of 480 Otis with 801 in chat on 5/20/2020. 480 Otis is on the left and 801 is on the right. NWBearLove92 shared this7/7/2019 photo of 480 Otis on 5/6/2020. NWBearLove92 shared this 7/7/2019 photo of 480 Otis (left) and 747 (right) on 6/18/2020. "480 Otis telling 747 to get his bald butt out of the office."
Please request NW Bear Love 92's permission prior to using their photographs of 480 Otis!
_and_480_Otis_(right)_July_8,_2019_photo_by_NWBearLove92.jpg "68 (left) and 480 Otis (right) July 8, 2019 photo by NWBearLove92.jpg (3.61 MB)")
_and_801_(right)_July_7,_2019_photo_by_NWBearLove92.jpg "480 Otis (left) and 801 (right) July 7, 2019 photo by NWBearLove92.jpg (1.85 MB)")
_and_747_(right)_July_7,_2019_photo_by_NWBearLove92.jpg "480 Otis (left) and 747 (right) July 7, 2019 photo by NWBearLove92.jpg (4.02 MB)")
2019.07.08: Truman Everts shared this 7/8/2019 photo of 480 Otis on 3/28/2020. Truman Everts shared this 7/8/2019 photo of 480 Otis on 4/20/2020. Truman Everts shared a 7/8/2019 photo of 480 Otis on 6/6/2021.
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
NWBearLover92 captured this photograph of 480 Otis on July 8, 2019 (p 06/21/2020 07:27 ).:
Please request NWBearLover92's permission prior to using their photographs!
2019.07.09: Lori Hocking (aka Lovethebears) captured these pictures of her photographs (#1, #2 , #3 , 4 , #5 & #6 ) of 480 Otis during her trip to Brooks Camp (p 01/26/2020 02:47 ). Lori has the actual photographs on her flickr (#1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 & #6 ) but did not have access to them on January 26, 2020 to share the actual photographs. Lori Hocking (aka Lovethebears) also captured these pictures of her photographs (#1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 & #6 ) (p 01/26/2020 14:32 ). I was able to locate some of the actual photographs on her flickr (#1 , #4 , & #5 ). The others my be there, but I have not located the matches to them. Lori Hocking shared 7/9/2019 photos of 480 Otis with 503 and 480 Otis alone on 6/2/2020, #1, #2 and #3. Note: These are Lori's actual photos from her trip. They are the same as photos #1,#2 and #11 in the existing gallery.
Please request Lori's (aka Lovethebears) permission prior to using her photographs!On
2019.07.09-.07.11: On 6/6/2021, angrbodha shared seven photos of 480 Otis from their 7/9/-7/11/2019 visit to Brooks Camp, #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6 and #7. Angrbodha commented "Happy Otis Day! As I approached the Brooks Falls platform for the very first time in July 2019, I saw Otis in the jacuzzi and said/squeed two things: "It's Otis!" and "He's huge!" In hindsight, that last sounds ridiculously obvious for a bearcam fan. But the cams distort reality a bit and I think it's hard to contend with our bears' size because we so rarely see them near people (thank goodness). In any case, here's our very first picture taken from the platform, Otis says "sup." 480 Otis interacted with 402 "At some point he had some interactions with 402 (photos #2, 3 and 4) , who had all three yearlings ranged out behind her along the bank. The level of mom with three kids trying to make a living, too busy and tired to put up with your boar nonsense attitude that she embodied was awesome." 480 Otis also had a conversation with 83 Wayne Brother. "And then 83 showed up and they had words. 83 moved 480 out of the jacuzzi (photos #5 and 6)." After all that, "So 480 went and took a nap down in the riffles in 151's hole (photo #7)."
Please request angrbodha's permission prior to using her photographs!
_and_402_(near)_July_9-July_11,_2019_photo_by_angrbodha_.01_.jpg "480 Otis (far) and 402 (near) July 9-July 11, 2019 photo by angrbodha .01 .jpg (4.11 MB)")
_and_402_(near)_July_9-July_11,_2019_photo_by_angrbodha_.02.jpg "480 Otis (far) and 402 (near) July 9-July 11, 2019 photo by angrbodha .02.jpg (2.59 MB)")
_and_402_(near)_July_9-July_11,_2019_photo_by_angrbodha_.03.jpg "480 Otis (far) and 402 (near) July 9-July 11, 2019 photo by angrbodha .03.jpg (2.29 MB)")
_and_83_Wayne_Brother_(right)_July_9-July_11,_2019_photo_by_angrbodha_.jpg "480 Otis (left) and 83 Wayne Brother (right) July 9-July 11, 2019 photo by angrbodha .jpg (4.33 MB)")
_and_83_Wayne_Brother_(far)_July_9-July_11,_2019_photo_by_angrbodha_.jpg "480 Otis (near) and 83 Wayne Brother (far) July 9-July 11, 2019 photo by angrbodha .jpg (1.48 MB)")
2019.07.09-.07.12: Lori Hocking (aka Lovethebears) shared seven photos of 480 Otis taken between 7/9-7/12/2019, #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6 and #7. Please request Lori's (aka Lovethebears) permission prior to using her photographs!
_.01.jpg "480 Otis July 9-July 12, 2019 photo by Lori Hocking (aka Lovethebears) .01.jpg (2.36 MB)")
_and_480_Otis_(right)_July_9-July_12,_2019_photo_by_Lori_Hocking_(aka_Lovethebears).jpg "854 Divot (left) and 480 Otis (right) July 9-July 12, 2019 photo by Lori Hocking (aka Lovethebears).jpg (1.95 MB)")
_.02.jpg "480 Otis July 9-July 12, 2019 photo by Lori Hocking (aka Lovethebears) .02.jpg (1.69 MB)")
_.03.jpg "480 Otis July 9-July 12, 2019 photo by Lori Hocking (aka Lovethebears) .03.jpg (3.26 MB)")
_and_480_Otis_(far)_July_9-July_12,_2019_photo_by_Lori_Hocking_(aka_Lovethebears)_.jpg "747 (near) and 480 Otis (far) July 9-July 12, 2019 photo by Lori Hocking (aka Lovethebears) .jpg (2.08 MB)")
_.04.jpg "480 Otis July 9-July 12, 2019 photo by Lori Hocking (aka Lovethebears) .04.jpg (1.96 MB)")
_and_503_(near)_July_9-July_12,_2019_photo_by_Lori_Hocking_(aka_Lovethebears)_.jpg "480 Otis (far) and 503 (near) July 9-July 12, 2019 photo by Lori Hocking (aka Lovethebears) .jpg (2.39 MB)")
2019.07.11: Meet 480 Otis video by Mike Ftiz, Resident Naturalist with Explore.org:
Mid July 2019: Theresa Bielawski shared this mid July 2019 photo of 480 Otis. "Skinny Otis during the heatwave in mid-July 2019."
Please request Theresa Bielawski's permission prior to using her photographs!
2019.07.18: Just before noon on July 18, 2019, Katmai Conservancy Ranger Naomi Boak did a live periscope of 480 Otis napping under a tree. 480 had been napping there since 21:00 the night prior.
2019 Katmai Conservancy Ranger Naomi Boak captured this NPS photograph of 480 Otis (p 01/26/2020 02:02 ). Naomi shared this information about the photograph.: "Here is a picture of the Zen Master after waking up from an epic nap on July 18, 2019. He had found a nap spot he loved under a tree behind the falls platform, out of bear cam view.":
747 naps near 480 Otis video by Lani H.:
856 goes after 68, but 480 Otis is in the wrong place at the wrong time video by Lani H.:
2019.07.20: 480 Otis bluff charges "mane bear" (aka "Shaggy") the unidentified dark adult male video by Lani H.:
2019.07.21: Meeting of the bent and partial ear club ~ 480 Otis (left), 775 Lefty (center) and 755 Scare D. Bear (right) video by Lani H.:
Meeting of the bent and partial ear club 7 21 2019 480 Otis (left), 775 Lefty (center) & 755 Scare D Bear (right) by Lani H-1
2019.07.23: 480 chastises 151 Walker video by mckate.:
2019.07.25: 747 has words with 480 Otis video by Lani H.:
2019.07.26: 480 Otis stands his ground and does not yield space to 747 video by Nancy B.:
2019.07.27: 480 Otis can be seen hovering nearby when 634 Popeye and 503 Cubadult have words in this video by Lani H.:
2019.07.28: GreenRiver captured this snapshot of 634 Popeye (left) with 480 Otis (right) (p 01/26/2020 07:47 ).:
Nine Bears video by mckate. 912/13 saunters by, 610 fishes near pool, 806 eats on lip, 821 fishes on lip, 812 gets fish stolen by white-clawed sow in the J, 83 fishes by table rock, 801 leaves the office, 480 sits by the trail. 806 leaves the lip when she sees 812 come out of the J. He's her buddy.:
2019.07.31: 480 Otis and 83 Wayne Brother interactions video by Lani H.:
The unidentified adult male with the distinctive hump (aka "Humphrey") tiptoes around 480 Otis video by mckate. Mckate shared this information in the description: "480 Otis was in fine form today chastising big boars and subs alike. He must be hungry! The unknown hump bear, aka Humphrey, seemed like he was thinking about greeting Otis. That wasn't happening.:
August 2019:[]
2019.08.??: Kacko & Goof_N captured these photographs (#1 & #2 ) of 480 Otis on their August 2019 trip to Brooks Camp (p 01/26/2020 13:15 ).:
Please request Kacko & Goof_n's permission prior to using their photographs!
2019.08.01: "Humphrey" (unidentified adult male with large hump) tries to steal 801's salmon which results in a fight between the two boars. 480 Otis attempts to intervene. Video by Lani H.:
2019.08.02-08.05: Goof_n shared an 8/2-8/5/2019 photo of 480 Otis on 4/17/2020. Goof_n shared this 8/3/2019 photo of 801 (left) 480 Otis (center) and 634 Popeye (right) on 5/6/2020. Goof_n shared this 8/4/2019 photo of "over 2 tons of bear" on 5/6/2020. Pictured in the photo are 747 (left, near) 480 Otis (left, far) 634 Popeye (center) and 801 (right). Goof_n shared this August 3, 2019 photo of 801 (near) and 480 Otis (far) on 5/20/2020. Goof_n shared this 8/3/2019 photo of 801 (left) 480 Otis (center) and 634 Popeye (right) on 5/20/2020. Goof_n shared this "late night" photo of 480 Otis on 5/5/2020. Goof_n shared an additional 8/4/2019 photo of 747, 634 Popeye, 801 and 480 Otis (front to back) on 3/17/2021.
Please request Kacko & Goof_n's permission prior to using their photographs!
_480_Otis_(center)_and_634_Popeye_(right)_August_3,_2019_photo_by_Kacko_and_Goof_n.jpg "801 (left) 480 Otis (center) and 634 Popeye (right) August 3, 2019 photo by Kacko and Goof n.jpg (1.8 MB)")
_480_Otis_(left,_far)_634_Popeye_(center)_and_801_(right)_August_4,_2019_photo_by_Kacko_and_Goof_n.jpg "747 (left, near) 480 Otis (left, far) 634 Popeye (center) and 801 (right) August 4, 2019 photo by Kacko and Goof n.jpg (1.78 MB)")
_and_480_Otis_(far)_August_3,_2019_photo_by_Goof_n_and_Kacko.jpg "801 (near) and 480 Otis (far) August 3, 2019 photo by Goof n and Kacko.jpg (1.74 MB)")
_480_Otis_(center)_and_634_Popeye_(right)_August_3,_2019_photo_by_Kacko_and_Goof_n_.02.jpg "801 (left) 480 Otis (center) and 634 Popeye (right) August 3, 2019 photo by Kacko and Goof n .02.jpg (2.19 MB)")
_August_4,_2019_photo_by_Kacko_and_Goof_n.jpg "747, 634 Popeye, 801 and 480 Otis (front to back) August 4, 2019 photo by Kacko and Goof n.jpg (1.08 MB)")
2019.08.05: Photobearsbry shared this 8/5/2019 photo of 480 Otis on 7/20/2020.
Please request photobearsbry's permission prior to using his photographs!
2019.08.08: The unidentified adult male with the distinctive hump (aka 'Humphrey") sneaks in behind 480 Otis in the far pool / office video by mckate.:
In this video by Lani H, where the focus is "Humphrey" pirating fish from 854 Divot, in the background you can see 480 Otis get put on his back by 68 in the far pool near the office.::
2019.08.07-08.12: Kam shared two 8/7/-8/12/2019 photos of 480 Otis on 1/16/2022, #1 and #2. Please request Kam's permission prior to using their photographs!
_and_801_(near)_August_7-August_12,_2019_photo_by_Kam_.01.jpg "480 Otis (far) and 801 (near) August 7-August 12, 2019 photo by Kam .01.jpg (506 KB)")
_and_801_(near)_August_7-August_12,_2019_photo_by_Kam_.02.jpg "480 Otis (far) and 801 (near) August 7-August 12, 2019 photo by Kam .02.jpg (548 KB)")
2019.08.09: 469 Patches and 480 Otis video by Lani H.:
BMDdad captured this snapshot of 801 (left) with 480 Otis (center) and 469 "Patches"/"Digger" (right) (p 03/01/2020 07:29 ).:
2019.08.09 & 2019.08.10: Izzy52 captured these photographs (#1 , #2 , #3 & #4 ) of 480 Otis on August 9, 2019 & August 10, 2019 (p 01/26/2020 04:08 ).
Please request Izzy52's permission prior to using her photographs!
2019.08.13: The unidentified adult male with the distinctive hump (aka "Humphrey") kicks 480 Otis out of the office video by mckate.:
2019.08.14: 747 does like to pester 480 Otis , on this day he was feeling bored and repeatedly went over to the far pool and splashed Otis with cannonballs, Otis finally had enough and they had a kerfuffle, but they paused to sit together and look at the mess 856 had made of Otis' Office. 747 and 480 Otis have words in the office video by Lani H.:
In this video by Lani H 747 comes over to splash Otis one last time before heading up the far hill.:
747 drenches 480 Otis video by mckate.:
The unidentified adult male with the distinctive hump (aka "Humphrey") displaces 480 Otis in this video by Lani H.:
Mashable article "This fat bear cam bear shouldn't be at the river. But he's on to something." 08/14/2019.
2019.08.15: The unidentified adult male with the distinctive hump (aka "Humphrey") and 480 Otis argue over the office video by Lani H.:
"Humphrey" and 480 Otis vie for the office video by mckate.:
September 2019:[]
2019.09.??: 480 Otis at Margot Creek video by Melissa Freels . Melissa also put the video on her flickr in the event you are not able to view it on Facebook. Melissa Freels shared this photograph of 480 Otis at the confluence of Margot Creek and Naknek Lake in September 2019 (p 01/26/2020 18:16 ). 480 Otis "eventually he got out of the water and started making his trek back to Brooks " (p 01/26/2020 18:26 ). Melissa also shared this information about her experience observing 480 Otis at Margot Creek: "It was such a surprise to see him there. We expected moms and cubs. So, 480 is out in the lake with two subs (maybe 8 feet apart from each other), and 273 is right there on the beach with her cubs. Everyone seems to trust Otis" (p 01/26/2020 18:54 ):
Please request Melissa Freels' permission prior to using her photographs!
2019.09.14-09.15: BeckyIndiana (aka BeckyMeyer) shared Four 9/14-9/15/2019 photos of 480 Otis on 6/6/2021, #1, #2, #3 and #4. Becky commented "I went to Katmai in September of 2019 hoping to see Otis. I stayed in King Salmon and took the water taxi to Brooks. On my last day, after enjoying many of my favorite bears, Otis has still not returned for the fall. The water taxi was leaving a little early because the water was rough so when we left, I was just a little disappointed that I wasn't able to see Otis. We had already left the beach when we got word we had to turn around to pick up another passenger. They told us we could have about another 30 minutes or so at Brooks. So I went back out to the bridge and there were no bears to be seen. I heard crashing in the bushes below and knew there was a bear coming through. It was Otis! He provided me an Otis-sized cherry on top of what was already a fabulous trip. I will certainly never forget it! As I left, he was headed up to the falls."
Please request BeckyMeyer's (aka BeckyIndiana) permission prior to using her photographs!
_.01.jpg "480 Otis September 14-September 15, 2019 photo by BeckyIndiana (aka BeckyMeyer) .01.jpg (4.29 MB)")
_.02.jpg "480 Otis September 14-September 15, 2019 photo by BeckyIndiana (aka BeckyMeyer) .02.jpg (4.19 MB)")
_.03.jpg "480 Otis September 14-September 15, 2019 photo by BeckyIndiana (aka BeckyMeyer) .03.jpg (3.35 MB)")
_.04.jpg "480 Otis September 14-September 15, 2019 photo by BeckyIndiana (aka BeckyMeyer) .04.jpg (3.53 MB)")
2019.09.15: 480 Otis returned to the Brooks River for the Fall 2019 season. Blair-55 created this gif of 480 Otis gliding in. Blair-55 created this gif of 480 Otis climbing up the bank between the wedge and the closed trail. Xander-Sage created this gif of 480 Otis' fall 2019 return. Xander-Sage also created this gif . Cruiser created this gif of 480 Otis climbing the bank between the wedge and the closed trail..:
Bonnie Hankins (aka NutsBoutBears) captured these photographs (#1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 & #6 ) of 480 Otis on September 15, 2019 when he made is return to the river for the 2019 Fall season (p 01/26/2020 07:15 ). Bonnie Hankins shared this 9/15/2019 photo of 480 Otis on 4/11/2020. Bonnie Hankins (aka NutsBoutBears) shared two 9/15/2019 photos of 480 Otis on 6/6/2021, #1 and #2. "Return of the King Sep 15, 2019 - Leaving the lake to enter the river and his arrival at the falls." Bonnie Hankins shared 2 additional photos of 480 Otis's return on 1/16/2022, #1 and #2.
Please request Bonnie Hankins' (aka NutsBoutBears) permission prior to using her photographs!
.jpg "480 Otis September 15, 2019 photo by Bonnie Hankins (aka NutsBoutBears).jpg (993 KB)")
_.08.jpg "480 Otis September 15, 2019 photo by Bonnie Hankins (aka NutsBoutBears) .08.jpg (1.1 MB)")
_.09.jpg "480 Otis September 15, 2019 photo by Bonnie Hankins (aka NutsBoutBears) .09.jpg (1.27 MB)")
_.10.jpg "480 Otis September 15, 2019 photo by Bonnie Hankins (aka NutsBoutBears) .10.jpg (1.09 MB)")
_.11.jpg "480 Otis September 15, 2019 photo by Bonnie Hankins (aka NutsBoutBears) .11.jpg (1.22 MB)")
Scooch captured these photographs (#1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 , #6 , #7 & #8 ) on September 15, 2019 (p 02/25/2020 01:22 ).: Scooch shared this 9/15/2019 photo of 480 Otis's backside on 4/23/2020. Scooch shared a 9/15/2019 art photo of 480 Otis on 4/28/2020. It was created from a photo taken at Brooks Falls. Scooch shared a 9/15/2019 photo of 480 Otis (left) and 747 (right) on 6/21/2020. "This photo was taken the day that 480 Otis returned from his summer vacay at Margot Creek. 747 wanted to displace him from his fishing spot but Otis wasn't about to move. We captured him telling 747 "I just walked 12 miles in a day and I'm tired. I'm not moving for you or anyone else so GET LOST!" When push comes to shove, the old guy has still got it! Well done, Otis."
Please request Scooch's permission prior to using her photographs!
_and_747_(right)_September_15,_2019_photo_by_scooch_.jpg "480 Otis (left) and 747 (right) September 15, 2019 photo by scooch .jpg (2.23 MB)")
480 Otis in the lower river video by Cruiser.:
2019.09.16: Bonnie Hankins (aka NutsBoutBears) captured this photograph of 480 Otis (near) with 68 (far) (p 01/13/2020 15:21 ). Bonnie Hankins captured this photograph of 480 Otis (p 01/21/2020 17:46 ).:
Please request Bonnie Hankins' (aka NutsBoutBears) permission prior to using her photographs!
480 Otis tells 856 it is rude to stare video by mckate.:
Scooch captured photos of 480 Otis (lighter) and 856 on 9/16/2019. The photos appear to be from the same time as mckate's 9/16/2019 video above. Scooch shared the photos in chat on 3/9/2020, #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6 and #7. "856 displaced 480 Otis from the J and though Otis barely voiced his displeasure you can see the anger on his face." On 3/9/2020 scooch added 2 more cropped photos of 480 Otis giving 856 the "stink eye" after getting moved out of the jacuzzi, photos #1 and #2. Scooch shared a 9/16/2019 photo of 480 Otis on 3/26/2020. Scooch shared this 9/16/2019 photo of 480 Otis on 5/21/2020.
Please request Scooch's permission prior to using her photographs!
_and_856_September_16,_2019_photo_by_scooch_.07.jpg "480 Otis (lighter) and 856 September 16, 2019 photo by scooch .07.jpg (1.97 MB)")
_and_856_September_16,_2019_photo_by_scooch_.06.jpg "480 Otis (lighter) and 856 September 16, 2019 photo by scooch .06.jpg (1.94 MB)")
_and_856_September_16,_2019_photo_by_scooch_.05.jpg "480 Otis (lighter) and 856 September 16, 2019 photo by scooch .05.jpg (1.97 MB)")
_and_856_September_16,_2019_photo_by_scooch_.04.jpg "480 Otis (lighter) and 856 September 16, 2019 photo by scooch .04.jpg (1.96 MB)")
_and_856_September_16,_2019_photo_by_scooch_.03_.jpg "480 Otis (lighter) and 856 September 16, 2019 photo by scooch .03 .jpg (1.97 MB)")
_and_856_September_16,_2019_photo_by_scooch_.02.jpg "480 Otis (lighter) and 856 September 16, 2019 photo by scooch .02.jpg (1.92 MB)")
_and_856_September_16,_2019_photo_by_scooch_.01.jpg "480 Otis (lighter) and 856 September 16, 2019 photo by scooch .01.jpg (1.91 MB)")
2019.09.18: 503 and 480 Otis eat peacefully in close quarters in "The Boys Chow Down", video by mckate, 9/18/19.
Xander-Sage created this gif of 480 Otis fishing in close proximity to 503 Cubadult (p 01/26/2020 08:14 ).:
480 Otis sitting behind 503 video by Lani H.;
Cam watcher and Brooks Camp visitor scooch observed and photographed both 480 Otis and 435 Holly fishing close to one another on the lower river on 9/18/2019. Scooch shared the photos in chat on 3/22/2020 and commented "What could possibly be better than seeing the beloved idol and the curvaceous icon of Brooks River within a few yards of each other? We were fortunate to see these two Katmai royals together on our last morning at Brooks. Now this is the kind of celebrity sighting that I enjoy!" Photos #1, #2,#3 and #4.
Please request Scooch's permission prior to using her photographs!
_and_435_Holly_(right)_September_18,_2019_photo_by_scooch_.jpg "480 Otis (left) and 435 Holly (right) September 18, 2019 photo by scooch .jpg (2.65 MB)")
_and_435_Holly_(right)_September_18,_2019_photo_by_scooch_.02.jpg "480 Otis (left) and 435 Holly (right) September 18, 2019 photo by scooch .02.jpg (2.22 MB)")
_and_435_Holly_(far)_September_18,_2019_photo_by_scooch_.03.jpg "480 Otis (near) and 435 Holly (far) September 18, 2019 photo by scooch .03.jpg (2.18 MB)")
_and_435_Holly_(far)_September_18,_2019_photo_by_scooch_.04.jpg "480 Otis (near) and 435 Holly (far) September 18, 2019 photo by scooch .04.jpg (2.17 MB)")
2019.09.18: KCanada shared this September 18, 2019 snapshot of 480 Otis napping up river of the elevated bridge (p 01/26/2020 07:04 ).:
2019.09.19: 503 Cubadult wants 480 Otis to play video by Lani H.:
2019.09.26: 2019 Katmai Conservancy Ranger Naomi Boak captured this NPS photograph of 480 Otis on September 26, 2019 ; Naomi's last day at Brooks Camp in the early morning mist. Naomi shared this information: "I really didn't want to leave and walked from my cabin, about 1.3 miles down the Valley Road, to Brooks Camp to say goodbye. And there was 480 Otis, the hardest working bear in Katmai. It was cold and misty but that didn't stop Otis." NPS photograph (p 0/26/2020 12:34 ).:
2019.09.28: GreenRiver shared this snapshot of 480 Otis (left) with 482 Brett? (right) (p 01/26/2020 09:18 ).:
2019.09.29: Bookmom shared these snapshots (#1 , #2 & #3 ) of 480 Otis in the lower river (p 01/26/2020 10:49 ).:
2019.09.30: 480 Otis "thrilled his fans" with a closeup view on 9/30/2019, vido by mckate.
480 Otis in the lower river video by Ratna Narayan.:
October 2019:[]
2019.10.??: GreenRiver captured this snapshot of 480 Otis (left) with 820 (right) (p 01/26/2020 07:47 ).:
2019.10.02: 480 Otis video by Ratna.:
2019.10.04: 480 Otis studiously ignores 503 Cubadult; until 503 shook just the tiniest amount of water on him. Don't splash Otis, even a little bit! Video by mickate.:
2019.10.05: 480 Otis grumbles at 503 Cubadult video by Lani H.:
2019.10.06: 480 Otis chases the subadult with the "spot"; "Run Spot Run" video by mckate.:
2019.10.11: How Big are the Fat Bear Week Bears? Explore.org blog:by Mike Fitz:
Bear Body Volume Weight Chart Only Link ~ 480 Otis Scan Image Link ~ 151 Walker Scan Images Link ~ 32 Chunk & 854 Divot Scan Images Link
GreenRiver captured this snapshot of 812 (near) with 480 Otis (far) (p 01/26/2020 07:47 ).:
2019.10.12: BeckyO shared this snapshot of 480 Otis (p 01/26/2020 08:48 ). Lovethebears shared these 10/12/2019 snapshots (#1 & #2 ) of 480 Otis (p 01/26/2020 02:31 ).:
2019.10.13: 480 Otis was last observed in 2019 on October 13. In this 10/13/2019 video by Lani H, 480 can be seen fishing in his favorite spot, the Office.
2020: Adult Male[]
480 Otis was included in the 2021 Bears of Brooks River book page 68.
2020 Season:[]
Deanna Dittloff created this 2020 Season video of 480 Otis, "Bear 480 Otis 2020."
BearPause shared two 2020 season gifs of 480 Otis, #1 and #2.
Cruiser's 2020 snapshot collage of 480 Otis Summer and Fall.
January 2020:[]
2020.01.x??: Scanning the Roundest Bear professional survey magazine article by Claire Napier.
2020.01.26: 480 Otis makes an appearance on 480 Otis Day (p 01/26/2020 15:54 ).:
June 2020:[]
2020.06.23: 480 Otis made his triumpant return to Brooks Falls on 6/23/2020 at approximately 6:26 am AKDT. Cam viewers were ecstatic to see 480 Otis looking good.
Rita Mann captured the first 6/23/2020 video of 480 Otis on the Brooks Falls Low cam before he was first seen in the jacuzzi.
Otis was then seen in the jacuzzi and then was charged by 151 Walker at the island. They had a bit of a discussion, video by Explore, "Return of the King!"
Cam viewer snapshots from 6/23/2020.
_June_23,_2020_snapshot_by_kathy97.jpg "480 Otis (left and 151 Walker (right) June 23, 2020 snapshot by kathy97.jpg (96 KB)")
480 Otis returns, 6/23/2020 video by mckate.
Video by Cruiser, 6/23/2020.
6/23/2020 video by Arlene Beech.
Erum Chad 6/23/2020 video.
6/23/2020 video by Lani H.
151 Walker chases 480 Otis up the far path, then a minor kerfuffle ensues, 6/23/2020 video by Lani H.
151 Walker yells at 480 Otis for following, 6/23/2020 video by mckate.
151 Walker harrasses 480 Otis, 6/23/2020 video by mckate.
151 Walker jaw pops at 480 Otis, 6/23/2020 video by mckate.
747 greets 480 Otis, 6/23/2020 video by mckate.
747 has words with 480 Otis, 6/23/2020 video by Lani H.
480 Otis finaly gets some peace in the office, 6/23/2020 video by mckate.
480 Otis in his office, 6/23/2020 video by Lani H.
Bubdoggy's 6/23/2020 snapshot of 480 Otis in his office.
2020.06.24: 480 Otis Zen Mode in his office, 6/24/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.06.26: Cruiser created this video of 480 Otis' lower river interaction with 634 Popeye.:
Scooch created this gif of 480 Otis with his carryout meal (p 06/26/2020 17:12 ). Scooch created this gif of 480 Otis getting a drink of water from the river (p 06/26/2020 16:23 ).:
2020.06.28: 480 Otis "mini bluff charges " 83 Wayne Brother, 6/28/2020 gif by Lani H.
2020.06.29: 480 Otis's half hearted attempt at fishing the lip. 6/29/2020video by Lani H.
2020.06.30: 480 Otis and 83 Wayne Brother cowboy walking around the island, 6/30/2020 video by Lani H.
July 2020:[]
2020.07.01: Scooch shared 2 gifs of 480 Otis on 10/29/2020. #1 shows a sleepy Otis and in #2 Otis's ear takes a flop. Unable to upload gif #1 to photo gallery due to 13.2 mb file size.
2020.07.02: 480 Otis follows 482 Brett? up the far path, 7/2/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.07.04: 856 (right) displaces 747 (left) and 480 Otis (far left at 0:22), 7/4/2020 video by Naomi Boak (aka Ranger Naomi Boak).
856 Displaces 747 & 480 Otis
856 displaces 747 and 480 Otis, July 4, 2020 video by Naomi Boak (aka Ranger Naomi Boak)
2020.07.05: 32 Chunk shows 480 Otis he is more dominant, 7/5/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.07.07: 503 Cubadult greets 480 Otis, 7/7/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.07.08: 503 Cubadult, 151 Walker, 480 Otis and 775 Lefty all at the jacuzzi (at 04:45), 7/8/2020 video by Ratna Narayan.
2020.07.09: 480 Otis kicks 503 out of the J, 7/9/2020 video by Ratna Narayan.
2020.07.12: Cam Viewer Terry_AK shared nine 7/12/2020 photos of 480 Otis from their trip to Brooks Falls, #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6, #7, #8 and #9.
Please request Terry-AK's permission prior to using their photographs!
480 Otis does not like the new unknown boar, 7/12/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.07.13: 32 Chunk says hello to 480 Otis, 7/13/2020 video by Kathy Lowry.
2020.07.15: Midnight fishing with 503 and 480 Otis, 7/15/2020 video by mckate.
2020.07.17.-07.19: Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) captured four 7/17/2020 photos of 480 Otis on her trip to Brooks Camp, #1, #2, #3 and #4. Lee also captured two 7/19/2020 photos of 480 Otis, #1 and #2.
Please request Lee's (aka RiverPA ) permission prior to using her photographs !
_.01.jpg "480 Otis July 17, 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .01.jpg (616 KB)")
_.02.jpg "480 Otis July 17, 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .02.jpg (538 KB)")
_.03.jpg "480 Otis July 17, 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .03.jpg (606 KB)")
_.04.jpg "480 Otis July 17, 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .04.jpg (607 KB)")
_.01.jpg "480 Otis July 19, 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .01.jpg (495 KB)")
_.02.jpg "480 Otis July 19, 2020 photo by Lee Pastewka (aka RiverPA) .02.jpg (442 KB)")
856 in the far pool, 480 Otis in the office, 7/17/2020 video by Ratna Narayan.
2020.07.18: 856 tells 747 to leave 480 Otis alone, 7/18/2020 video by mckate.
2020.07.19: 8 boars are seen in this 7/19/2020 video by mckate, 480 Otis is in the office. "911 on the lip, 503 in the J, 807 behind 503, 775 Lefty next to the J, 856 by the chute, 480 Otis in the office, and 634 Popeye by the trail."
2020.07.20: 480 Otis kicks 801 out of the office, 7/20/2020 video by mckate.
2020.07.23: 480 Otis and 18 in the far pool, 7/23/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.07.24: 151 Walker, 480 Otis and 18 in the far pool, 7/24/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.07.25: 801 leaving and 480 Otis arriving, 7/25/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.07.26: 775 Lefty and 480 Otis have a kerfuffle in the office, 7/26/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.07.27: 89 Backpack and 480 Otis at the falls, 7/27/2020 video by Ratna Narayan.
480 Otis (left) briefly plays with 89 Backpack (right) July 27, 2020 gif by oregonshefisher.
_plays_with_89_Backpack_(right)_July_27,_2020_gif_by_oregonshefisher.gif "480 Otis (left) plays with 89 Backpack (right) July 27, 2020 gif by oregonshefisher.gif (4.38 MB)")
2020.07.28: 480 Otis up close and personal. 7/28/2020 video by Ratna Narayan.
2020.07.29: 480 Otis is seen back, right as 503 enters the jacuzzi, 7/29/2020 video by Lani H.
August 2020:[]
2020.08.01: 480 Otis and 801 have a discussion, 8/1/2020 video by flyer 7474.
2020.08.02: 480 Otis is in the jacuzzi until 747 moves him out, 8/2/2020 video by Ratna Narayan.
2020.08.03: 480 Otis concentrates on his fishing and then takes a rest, 8/3/2020 video by Ratna Narayan.
2020.08.04: Bear 909 falls off the lip, 480 Otis reacts slowly, 8/4/2020 video by Hey Princess.
2020.08.05: A collage of bears at the falls, 8/5/2020 video by Ratna Narayan. 480 Otis is seen at 28:00 on the right.
2020.08.07: Lani H 8/7/2020 video, 151 Walker and 480 Otis have a kerfuffle with an unknown boar.
2020.08.08: 151 Walker (left) , 480 Otis (center) and 801 (right) in the far pool, 8/8/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.08.10: 480 Otis isn't happy that 18 enters the jacuzzi, 8/10/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.08.11: 480 Otis makes a subtle catch, 8/11/2020 video by mckate.
2020.08.12: 801 annoys 480 Otis, 8/12/2020 video by mckate. "It could have been worse. At least he didn't splash Otis. 480 did his best to ignore him, and 801 finally left."
2020.08.13: 480 Otis and 32 Chunk, 8/13/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.08.14: Kathy Lowry's 8/14/2020 video, 480 Otis fishes at the conveyer belt.
2020.08.15: 151 Walker annoys 480 Otis, 8/15/2020 video by mckate. "Because it's traditional, and because 32 was keeping him from sitting by his rock."
2020.08.16: 480 Otis in the far pool, 8/16/2020 snapshot by CamOp Snow.
2020.08.17: 480, 747 and 32 sit and wait, 8/17/2020 video by flyer 7474.
2020.08.18: 151 Walker invades 480 Otis's personal space, 8/18/2020 video by flyer 7474.
2020.08.19: Otis makes a spin move in an attempt to catch a fish, 8/19/2020 gif by KajaTully.
Lani H's 8/19/2020 video, 480 Otis tries to catch one more salmon before bed.
2020.08.20: 480 Otis enjoys an evening dip, 8/20/2020 video by mckate. "Funny to see him in the kiddie pool. I wonder if he headed out to Margot Creek?"
September 2020:[]
2020.09.??: Cam viewer and Brooks Camp visitor WSJ shared three photos of 480 Otis (on 6/7/2021) from their September 2020 trip, #1, #2 and #3. "For Otis day: Here are a couple of photos from September 2020. He was napping, this was in the lower river and he napped in this area several times." Please request WSJ's permission prior to using their photographs!
2020.09.12: 480 Otis made his annual grand return to Brooks Camp after his August hiatus on 9/12/2020. Ranger Naomi Boak shared a comment and photo from that day on 9/15/2020. "Bear 480 Otis made his grand fall entrance this weekend. The earth shook, not when he moved his massive girth through the river, but when his fans around the world applauded upon seeing the old man. We often speak of the qualities that help bears survive the very challenging lives they lead and Otis is the embodiment of those qualities. At age 25 or 26, he is the river’s oldest boar, yet he remains one of its most successful. Despite missing several teeth and moving a little more slowly, Otis continues to be one of the fattest bears here. His patience and tenacity are two qualities that enable him to thrive. If you have any questions or comments about Otis or what it takes to be a successful bear along the Brooks River." Ranger Naomi Boak shared an additional 9/12/2020 NPS photo of 480 Otis on 6/6/2021.
Permission to use her NPS photos posted on the bearcam comments
_.02.jpg "480 Otis September 12, 2020 NPS photo by Ranger Naomi Boak (aka NSBoak) .02.jpg (71 KB)")
Chatter 907AKSnow was visiting Brooks Camp when 480 Otis returned on the morning of 9/12/2020. She shared her experience and a video of 480 Otis returning via the lower river at 9:58 am AKDT. She also shared a 2nd video from 4:10 pm when Otis was observed in the riffles. Note: Otis is first observed at 1:01 in the riffles video. Comments and the videos were posted in the chat on 9/15/2020.
"Hello dear Bear Friends. I got back from Brooks yesterday, spent the 10th thru the 13th there. What a land of enchantment, simply unbelievable. I had to pinch myself a few times to ensure I wasn't dreaming. The weather was amazing, not a cloud in the sky the whole time. Very few people as well. My daughter and I got to witness the return of Otis. We were down on the shore of Naknek Lake on the morning of the twelfth taking photos of the sunrise and he came out of the fog on the spit and was making his way up the lower river and we weren't far behind. We made our way to the falls, stopping at the riffles before heading on up. We were the only ones on the platform and lo and behold here came Otis headed for the falls and so did we. Once again, we were the only ones on the platform at the falls and sweet Otis made it home. What sweet memories I have now. I feel so privileged to have been able to witness such a magical place on this earth."
480 Otis returns to Lower Brooks River ~ September 12, 2020 - 9-58AM
480 Otis returns to Lower Brooks River, 9/12/2020 video by 907AKSnow
480 Otis returns to Brooks Falls ~ September 12, 2020 4-10PM
480 Otis returns to Brooks Falls, 9/12/2020 video by 907AKSnow
480 Otis returns to Brooks River, 9/12/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.09.12-09.17: Theresa Bielawski shared eleven photos from her 9/12-9/17/2020 trip to Brooks Camp, #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10 and #11. "Happy Otis Day! 2020 was the first year I went in Sept and also the first time I had seen Otis anywhere except the falls. These pictures were all from the lower river & Naknek Lake. The picture of him in the lake is the only time I have seen him look small and a couple of shots of the fur pattern around his ears (when I was geeking-out one day). Will post more from other years later." 480 Otis's fur pattern near his ears are seen in photos #3 and #4. Photo #6 shows Otis with a possible split tongue. Mike commented on Otis's possible split tongue on 6/7/2021. "Huh. It does sort of look like that. I'll have to pay closer attention when I'm at Brooks River to confirm whether the tongue is split (certainly a possibility) or if it is just folded weirdly in the photo." Shel posted three snapshots of 480 Otis from 9/18/2017 with what appears to be a split tongue, #1, #2 and #3. In response to seeing the photos, Mike Fitz commented "OK then. That does seem to confirm it. Given how bears fight, tongue injuries might not be uncommon."
Please request Theresa Bielawski's permission prior to using her photographs!
Cam viewer Goldilocks,Canada believes that 480 Otis has the "appearance of a forked tongue" rather than a split tongue. Goldilocks posted her explanation along with photos on 1/26/2022.
2020.09.13: 480 Otis naps on the lower river, 9/13/2020 video by Hey Princess.
2020.09.14: 480 Otis scavenging, 9/14/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.09.15: 480 Otis taking a nap at the river, 9/15/2020 video by Hey Princess.
2020.09.16: Mckate's 9/16/2020 video, 480 Otis's quest for the perfect salmon. "I'm not sure why he rejects so many. Maybe they are too old or too tough to crack open with his dental issues. It was great to see he finally found one that passed muster."
2020.09.17: 503 swims past a napping 480 Otis, 9/17/2020 video by Hey Princess.
2020.09.18: 480 Otis (far) and 879 (near) scavenging, 9/18/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.09.19: Zen time with 480 Otis, 9/19/2020 video by Hey Princess.
2020.09.20: Chatters shared 9/20/2020 snapshots of 480 Otis. Bruni's snapshot. Sweet_Mystic shared 2 snapshots, #1 and #2.
482 Brett and 480 Otis enjoy the early bird buffet, 9/20/2020 video by mckate. "Nice to see two of the most senior bears enjoying themselves on the lower river. I'll never forget Otis politely hitting on 482 early in the season. She let him down easy."
2020.09.21: 480 Otis and 879, breakfast companions, 9/21/2020 video by mckate. "Funny how often you find 480 and 879 eating near each other. I guess the lower river is a pretty small space."
2020.09.22: 480 Otis taking another nap, 9/22/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.09.23: 151 Walker displaces 480 Otis out of the office, 503 arrives and goes to the hole, 9/23/2020 video by Hey Princess.
151 Walker displaces 480 Otis out of the office, 503 arrives and goes to the hole 09.23.20-2
Video by Hey Princess
2020.09.24: Ranger Naomi Boak shared a 9/24/2020 NPS photo of 480 Otis on the lower river from the "back end" on 6/6/2021.
Please request NSBoak's (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) permission prior to using her photographs!
.jpg "480 Otis September 24, 2020 NPS photo by Ranger Naomi Boak (aka NSBoak).jpg (59 KB)")
2020.09.26: NSBoak (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) shared a 9/26/2020 NPS photo of Otis in chat. Please request NSBoak's (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) permission prior to using her photographs!
.jpg "480 Otis September 26, 2020 NPS photo by NSBoak (aka Ranger Naomi Boak).jpg (308 KB)")
2020.09.27: 480 Otis visits the falls, 9/27/2020 video by Hey Princess.
2020.09.29: 879 enjoying a meal, a cameo by 480 Otis, 9/29/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.09.30: 9/30/2020 snapshot of 480 Otis by yogi63.
October 2020:[]
2020.10.01: 480 Otis cruising on the lower river, 10/1/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.10.02: 480 Otis in the office, 10/2/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.10.03: 94 and her three 2.5 year old cubs are surrounded, 10/3/2020 video by mckate. "They were caught between 879 and 480 Otis. Fortunately it was just those two gentle bears."
2020.10.04: Breakfast with 480 Otis, 10/4/2020 video by Hey Princess.
2020.10.05: 480 Otis and 812 at the falls, 10/5/2020 video by Hey Princess.
2020.10.06: 480 Otis fishes in the evening and gets a nice live salmon, 10/6/2020 video by Becky Osberg.
2020.10.07: 480 Otis snorkeling, 10/7/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.10.08: 480 Otis snorkeling, 10/8/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.10.11: This is probably 480 Otis on the lower river, 10/11/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.10.13: 480 Otis fishing the Lower River, 10/13/2020 video by Becky Osberg.
2020.10.14: 480 Otis & 83 Wayne Brother fish together, 10/14/2020 video by Becky Osberg.
2020.10.15: Scooch's two 10/15/2020 gifs of fish almost swimming into 83 Wayne Brother's mouth, #1 and #2.
Becky Osberg's 10/15/2020 video, 480 Otis having a peaceful feast.
2020.10.16: 480 Otis snorkeling near the bridge on lower river, 10/16/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.10.17: Lani H 10/17/2020 video, 480 Otis fishing on the lower river.
2020.10.18: 480 Otis fishing in early morning, 10/18/2020 video by Becky Osberg.
2020.10.19: 480 Otis fishing on the LRW, 10/19/2020 video by Lani H.
2020.10.20: 480 Otis fishes on the other side of the river, 10/20/1010 video by Hey Princess.
2020.10.21: 480 Otis early morning fishing on RW, 10/21/2020 video by Becky Osberg.
2020.10.22: 480 Otis snorkeling on the lower river, 10/22/2020 video by Lani H. At 4:57 you can see Otis's size when he is mostly out of the water.
2020.10.23: 480 Otis has words with 879, 10/23/2020 video by Lani H. Were they discussing where they were going to den? This was the last time 480 Otis and 879 were observed in 2020.
2021:[]
480 Otis was included in the 2022 Bears of Brooks River book page 74.
2021 Season:[]
Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) created this 2021 season video "480 Otis 2021."
Cam viewer MaryMcD shared a Katmai Otis version of Otis Redding's "Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay" on 8/12/2021.
About an hour ago, we were talking on the chat about how Otis got his name. One idea was that it was based on the Otis Redding song, "Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay." Turns out that's not the case. But ever since that post, the song has been going through my head. So... Here's the Katmai Otis version of the song. Feel free to sing along! :-)
“Otis at Brooks Falls”
With Apologies to the great Otis Redding
Sittin’ in the mornin’ sun
I’ll be sittin’ when the evening comes
Watching the fish swim in
Then I watch ‘em swim away again.
I’m sittin’ by the rocks all day
Watching the cubs float away.
I’m just sitting by the rocks every day
Catching mine.
I left my den on Dumpling
Headed for Naknek Lake.
Cause I’ve got something to live for
Lots of salmon gonna come my way.
So I’m just sittin’ in my office all day
Wondrin’ how much I’ll weigh.
I’m just sitting by the rocks every day
Doin’ fine.
Looks like nothin’s gonna change.
Walker still remains the same.
I can’t do what Grazer tells me to do
So I guess I’ll remain the same,
Sittin’ here resting my bones
But these subadults won’t leave me alone.
Two thousand fish I own
And I’ve made these falls my home.
Now I'm just sittin’ in my office all day
Watching the cubs float away,
Sittin' in my office all day,
Doin’ fine.
July 2021:[]
2021.07.26: 480 Otis is a long beloved bear on Brooks River. He has yet to show up this year. Mike Fitz & Naomi Boak answered some fan questions about why he is missing, 7/26/2021 video by Explore.
JG captured 7/26/2021 video of Otis before he reached the falls. He can be seen at the beginning of the video at the oxbow, then coming up the riffles and finally at the falls where he was confronted by 747.
"His ears must have been burning since we were talking about him so much yesterday. Otis returned to Brooks Falls the evening of July 26th, 2021!" Explore's 7/26/2021 video of 480 Otis.
Ranger Naomi Boak stopped in chat the evening of 7/26/2021. She shared a story and a photo of 480 Otis. "So I had just sat down to have a martini at the Lodge, when Ranger Michael came by and said, "I guess you didn't have your radio on. Ranger Tammy called out that 480 is in the house." Needless to say, i abandoned my martini, raced to my cabin to get my gear and ran to the falls. Only problem -- a bear jam. So I went back to the bridge to get in touch with Courtney to let her know and figure how we could let the world know. I actually bushwacked through the trees to get around the sleeping bear and made it to the falls to see SO many bears...and the Zen Master himself, 480 Otis. It's a miracle. I hear the champagne corks popping round the world. "
Ranger Naomi Boak stopped in chat the morning of 7/27/2021 and shared two more photos of 480 Otis in chat, #1 and #2. "I know we are obsessed with the return of Otis, but his return was the cap to a magical day here. Early in the evening I was sitting on the bridge with Mocha-SoCal and the superintendent. It was so quietly beautiful on the lower river. I mentioned how Holly didn't travel under the bridge until late in the season last year. Not two seconds later, Holly swam right underneath us, then dove for fish! Later in the evening, three rangers (including Ranger Mo) were fishing. A longtime maintenance fellow and I watched and joked with them for a while. Then, I was on the porch of the Lodge, speaking with the woman who works with the walruses at Round Island when I heard the news about Otis. Yes, another magical day at Brooks Camp. Here's a couple more Otis pics."
Please request NSBoak's (aka Ranger Naomi Boak) permission prior to using her photographs!
_.01.jpg "480 Otis July 26, 2021 NPS photo by Ranger Naomi Boak (aka NSBoak) .01.jpg (2.53 MB)")
_.02.jpg "480 Otis July 26, 2021 NPS photo by Ranger Naomi Boak (aka NSBoak) .02.jpg (2.73 MB)")
_.03.jpg "480 Otis July 26, 2021 NPS photo by Ranger Naomi Boak (aka NSBoak) .03.jpg (2.62 MB)")
Cam viewer snapshots of 480 Otis on 7/26/2021: Snapshot collage by Cruiser, gif by scooch, CarolineB's sketch of Ranger Naomi bushwhacking to get around a bear jam to see Otis at the falls, gif by LunaCre, snapshot by Blair, gif by SteveCA, snapshot by WillaFayeBuck, snapshot by RavensClaws, snapshot by blueraggs6, snapshot by mm1, snapshot by quin1980, snapshot by Skybluesue, snapshot by nana62, snapshot by Hibernating Bear, snapshot by DTB: fat mom of fat bear 2020, snapshot by KimBear17, snapshot by Bluebird🐦, snapshot by RavensClaws, snapshot by merry_mermaid.
2021.07.27: 480 Otis fishes the fish ladder, 7/27/2021 video by mckate.
2021.07.28: 480 Otis gets interrupted by 634 Popeye and loses his snack, 7/28/2021 video by Flyer 4477.
2021.07.29: Close ups of 480 Otis as he waits for a spot to open up, 7/29/2021 video by JG.
2021.07.30: No good deed goes unpunished, 7/30/2021 video by mckate. "480 intervened when 151 jumped on a sub, or maybe he was just saying, "Hey, don't disturb my fishing!" It looked like Otis bit Walker on the butt, and got his face grabbed in return. (Where's Grazer when we need her?) A few years ago Walker would have tolerated a correction from Otis, but no more. That's a really bad spot to fight too because the uphill bear always has the advantage. Otis may be old, but he's tough. He just went right back to work."
2021.07.31: A small sub catches a fish right by Otis, 7/31/2021 video by Cheryl B.
August 2021:[]
2021.08.01: 480 Otis sits and fishes downriver, 8/1/2021 video by Flyer 4477.
2021.08.02: While focused on 480 Otis, a bear catches a high flyer, 8/2/2021 video by Flyer 4477.
2021.08.03: 480 Otis fishes in the office, 8/3/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.08.04: "Zen Otis", 8/4/2021 video by Ratna Narayan.
2021.08.05: After being displaced by 801 and a tense standoff with 856, 480 Otis does regain his "Office", 8/5/2021 video by Flyer 4477.
2021.08.06: 480 Otis has words with 801 and 151 Walker, 8/6/2021 video by Flyer 4477.
2021.08.07: 480 Otis spots 128 Grazer and vacates his office, 8/7/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.08.08: 480 Otis and Alice the seagull, 8/8/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.08.08-08.13: Deelynnd (aka Deanna Dittloff) shared 9 photos of 480 Otis from her 8/8-8/13/2021 trip to Brooks Camp on 1/16/2022, #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6, #7, #8, #9 and #10. Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) shared a 8/8-8/13, 2021 photo of 151 Walker (left) and 480 Otis (right) on 3/20/2022.
Please request deelynnd's permission prior to using her photographs!
_.01.jpg "480 Otis September 8-September 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .01.jpg (2.95 MB)")
_.02.jpg "480 Otis September 8-September 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .02.jpg (1.6 MB)")
_.03.jpg "480 Otis September 8-September 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .03.jpg (2.51 MB)")
_.04.jpg "480 Otis September 8-September 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .04.jpg (2.36 MB)")
_.05.jpg "480 Otis September 8-September 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .05.jpg (2.5 MB)")
_.06.jpg "480 Otis September 8-September 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .06.jpg (1.74 MB)")
_.07.jpg "480 Otis September 8-September 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .07.jpg (1.83 MB)")
_.08.jpg "480 Otis September 8-September 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .08.jpg (2.3 MB)")
_.09.jpg "480 Otis September 8-September 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .09.jpg (885 KB)")
_.10.jpg "480 Otis September 8-September 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .10.jpg (928 KB)")
_and_480_Otis_(right)_August_8-August_13,_2021_photo_by_Deanna_Dittloff_(aka_deelynnd)_.01.jpg "151 Walker (left) and 480 Otis (right) August 8-August 13, 2021 photo by Deanna Dittloff (aka deelynnd) .01.jpg (102 KB)")
2021.08.09: 480 Otis fishes in the office along with 801 (left) and 747 (near), 8/9/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.08.10: 480 Otis shows his flexibility fishing the conveyer while 801 watches and 151 Walker moves into the office, 8/10/2021 video by mckate.
2021.08.11: 801, 480 Otis and 747 fish the far pool, 8/11/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.08.12: 480 Otis eating scraps, 8/12/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.08.13: 480 Otis is denied access to his office and goes to pick up scraps, 8/13/2021 video by Hey Princess.
480 Otis denied access to his office and goes to pick up scraps Explore.org 08.13.21
Video by Hey Princess
2021.08.14: 801 and 480 Otis having a discussion while trying to take their naps, 8/14/2021 video by Hey Princess.
801 and 480 Otis having a discussion while trying to take their naps Explore.org 08.14.21
Video by Hey Princess
2021.08.15: 747 having words with 480 Otis, 8/15/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.08.16: 480 Otis eats his fish while a gull watches, 8/16/2021 gif by LunaCre
2021.08.17: 480 Otis catches a big one with yearlings behind catching one too, 8/17/2021 video by Cheryl B.
8-17-2021 Otis catches a big one with yearlings behind catching one too Explore.org
Video by Cheryl B
2021.08.18: 480 Otis pounces and catches a fish in the office, 8/18/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.08.19: 480 Otis in action on the infrared cam, 8/19/2021 video by Hey Princess. "Very cool to watch Otis under infrared or thermographic imaging catch a fish, argue with Walker and head out for the night for his long nap!"
2021.08.20: 480 Otis working the office, 8/20/2021 video by JG.
2021.08.21: 480 Otis arrives from the top of the falls, 8/21/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.08.22: Otis 480 has the office to himself, 8/22/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.08.23: Wishful thinking 480 Otis, 8/23/2021 video by mckate. "Not only does 812 eat every morsel, but he licks the rock clean. My favorite part was when Otis glanced at the gull as if to say, 'Well, if there's anything left over, it's yours. Otis did not go hungry today though. Nature's Folio saw Otis consuming 28 fish + 7 scraps while the cams were up."
2021.08.24: 480 Otis catches a huge fish, 719 and 812 came over to check it out, 8/24/2021 video by mckate.
2021.08.25: 480 Otis finally gets the "J" with fish distracting him to the side, 8/25/2021 video by Cheryl B.
8-25-2021 Otis finally gets the "J" with fish distracting him to the side Explore.org
Video by Cheryl B.
2021.08.26: 480 wants the office back, 879 is not budging, 8/26/2021 video by mckate.
2021.08.27: 480 Otis takes a break, 8/27/2021 video by JG.
2021.08.28: 480 Otis arrives from above the falls, briefly stops at the jacuzzi and then the conveyer. He finally settles in the office only to have 128 Grazer arrive with her 2 yearlings. All remains peaceful, 8/28/2021 video by Flyer 4477.
2021.08.29: 480 Otis seen on infrared before heading out for the evening, 8/29/2021 video by Flyer 4477.
2021.08.30: 480 Otis has a fish snack, 8/30/2021 video by GA Bear.
2021.08.31: 812 and 480 Otis in the office, 8/31/2021 video by Ratna Narayan
September 2021:[]
2021.09.01: 480 actively fishing, 9/1/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.09.03: 480 Otis waits for his turn, 9/3/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.09.04: 503 displaces 480 Otis out of the jacuzzi, 9/4/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.09.05: 480 Otis takes the overnight shift fishing in the office, 9/5/2021 video by Hey Princess. "He's finally taken his office back after waiting for everyone to leave and had a productive shift catching some big salmon!"
2021.09.06: 480 Otis chilling, 9/6/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.09.07: 480 Otis takes his medicine, 9/7/2021 video by mckate. "He's nibbling on some clay to help soothe his digestive tract."
2021.09.08: 480 Otis confronts his impersonator 274 Overflow, 9/8/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.09.10: 480 Otis fishes the falls at night. 812 is in the foreground, 9/10/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.09.11: Otis 480 checking out the office then strolls down the riffles, 9/11/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.09.12: Cam viewer and Brooks Camp visitor Gin907 shared five 9/12/2021 photos of 480 Otis on 6/4/2022, #1, #2, #3, #4 and #5.
Please request Gin907's permission prior to using their photographs!
Gin907 also shared a 9/12/2021 video of 480 Otis blowing bubbles while snorkeling on the lower river.
Cam viewer and Brooks Camp visitor 907 AKSnow captured this 9/12/2021 video of 480 Otis.
480 Otis ambles across the river, 9/12/2021 video by Buddy's Mom.
2021.09.13: 480 Otis tours the lower river, 9/13/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.09.14-09.18: Cam viewer and Brooks Camp visitor Susan Rennie shared four 9/14-9/18/2021 photos of 480 Otis on 1/16/2021, #1, #2, #3 and #4. Susan Commented regarding seeing 480 Otis. "When I finally achieved my dream of visiting Brooks in person this past September it was my fervent hope to see Otis. I did not see him in his iconic zen office, but I did get wonderful sightings of him on three early mornings when he floated into the river mouth, cruised under the bridge, mosied around the island and reeds before swimming up to the oxbow and on to the Falls. Here are a few shots I got of Floaty-Otie (as named to me by Ranger Tammy)."
Please request Susan Rennie's permission prior to using her photographs!
2021.09.15: JG's 9/15/2021 video of 480 Otis.
2021.09.16: 480 Otis gets irritated with 503 (left) and 812 (right playing in front of him, 9/16/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.09.17: 812 tries to get 480 Otis to play, 9/17/2021 video by mckate.
2021.09.18: 480 Otis stands and sits near the falls before heading downriver, 9/18/2021 video by JG.
2021.09.19: 480 Otis is almost ready for Fat Bear Week, 9/19/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.09.20: 480 Otis fishing in the office, 9/20/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.09.21: 480 Otis is calm but assertive to take his spot in the office, 9/21/2021 video by Cheryl B.
9-21-2021 480 Otis is calm but assertive to take his spot in the office Explore.org
Video by Cheryl B
2021.09.22: 480 Otis's office fishing session, 9/22/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.09.23: 480 Otis wants his office spot from 602, 9/23/2021 video by mckate. "I can't hear or see you under water!" This exchange between 480 and 602 went on for a comically long time until 602 finally grew tired of being nagged and left."
2021.09.24: 480 Otis in the lower river, 9/24/2021 video by JG.
2021.09.25: 812 asks 480 Otis to share, 9/25/2021 video by mckate. "Otis just calmly ignored him. I wonder why 812 doesn't take himself down to the lower river where he'd find plenty of old fish."
2021.09.26: 480 Otis making his mark going up the hill, 9/26/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.09.27: Strong Work 480 Otis I knew you could do it, 9/27/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.09.28: 480 Otis preempts 812's begging, 9/28/2021 video by mckate. "812 should know by now that it's a cardinal sin to splash Otis (not that Otis would share with him anyway). I can't recall ever having seen Otis turn his back to eat his fish. 812 must really be making a pest of himself. Poor Otis."
2021.09.29: 480 Otis fishing the office, 9/29/2021 video by JG.
2021.09.30: 480 Otis sparkles in the snow, 9/30/2021 video by Hey Princess.
October 2021:[]
Cruiser created this October 2021 video of 480 Otis, "Ode to 480 Otis."
2021.10.01: 480 Otis clocks in the office, 10/1/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.10.02: Various clips of 480 Otis during the day, 10/2/2021 video by JG.
2021.10.03: 480 Otis stare, 10/3/2021 video by JG.
2021.10.04: 480 Otis Zenning in the office, 10/4/2021 gif by LunaCre.
2021.10.05: 480 Otis Fat Bear Champ, 10/5/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.10.06: 480 Otis in the office just keeps catching them, 10/6/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.10.07: 856 peacefully displaces 480 Otis, 10/7/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.10.08: 480 Otis rests on a rock, 10/8/2021 video by markindify.
480 Otis bites 89 Backpack, 10/8/2021 video by mckate. "Backpack had been fishing in front of Otis for quite some time with his behind practically in Otis's face when he caught a fish and, rather than eating it in place, carried it off right by Otis. The biting occurred after Backpack returned from consuming his fish. I guess looking at Backpack's butt for an hour was bad enough, but the flaunting of the fish was just unforgivable."
2021.10.09: 480 Otis pestered by a magpie, 10/9/2020 video by JG.
2021.10.10: 480 Otis close up in the jacuzzi, 10/10/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.10.11: 480 Otis, 99 and 812 (back to front) fish in the far pool October 11, 2021 gif by LunaCre
2021.10.12: 480 Otis scolds 812, 10/12/2021 video by Hey Princess. 99 is the bear in the foreground.
2021.10.13: 480 Otis still pouncing for fish, 10/13/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.10.14: 480 Otis in the office looking alert, 10/14/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.10.15: 480 Otis looking great, 10/15/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.10.16: 480 Otis lets 812 know that the office is NOT a coworking space, 10/16/2021 video by NOJuju. "Katmai brown bears 812 and 480 Otis frequently fish in friendly proximity, but when 812 decides to find out whether 480 Otis's favorite fishing spot, the Office, has any extra desk space available, the answer is a definitive, "No!"
2021.10.17: The struggle is real with 480 Otis, 10/17/2021 video by Hey Princess. Climbing the far hill is a chore.
2021.10.18: 480 Otis clocks in, 812 clocks out of the office, 10/18/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.10.19: Otis 480 taking a stroll down the RF looking for fish, 10/19/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.10.20: 480 Otis fishing in the office, 10/20/2021 video by Flyer 4477.
2021.10.21: 480 Otis tells 812 to get out, 10/21/2021 video by Hey Princess.
2021.10.23: 480 Otis naps above the far side of the falls, 10/23/2021 video by Cheryl B.
2021.10.24: 480 Otis fishes the lower river, 10/24/2021 gif by LunaCre.
Cam watchers got a last glimpse of 480 Otis on 10/24/2021, video by NOJuju. Considering his very late arrival to Brooks Camp, Otis looked very fat for hibernation. We look forward to seeing him in 2022. Don't be late Otis!
2022: Adult Male[]
2022 Season:[]
Deanna Dittloff created this 2022 season video, "Bear 480 Otis 2022."
June 2022:[]
2022.06.29: 480 Otis returned to Brooks Camp on 6/29/2022, video by Explore. After being seen in the oxbow area he headed for Brooks Falls.
Truman Evert's 6/29/2022 photo of 480 Otis. "I'm always amazed at how prominent that 7 (or "?") on 480's left side is, this time if year, when I can find no trace of it whatsoever when I see him in early season." Truman Evert's 6/29/2022 photo of 480 Otis. "This was my first '22 look at him...and the Fat Bear King even seemed to be smiling..." Truman's 6/29/2022 photo of 480 Otis "showing off his other side."
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
Melissa Freels shared four 6/29/2022 photos of 480 Otis with 399 on 7/11/2022, #1, #2, #3 and #4. "On June 29 while on the falls platform, we received exciting news: 480 Otis had arrived! We could see him down at the cutbank, but he was taking his own sweet time. He was snacking in the river, and maybe even napping--it was hard to tell! So, we decided to go back to the lodge for dinner; we knew he'd be at the falls by evening. Sure enough, Otis didn't disappoint; he was in the recently redecorated office when we arrived at the falls after dinner ... But wait, who was this dark Mystery Bear who was shaking things up? It was an interesting evening as many of the males tried to establish their place in the hierarchy."
Please request Melissa Freel's permission prior to using her photographs!
_and_399_(right)_June_29,_2022_photo_by_Melissa_Freels_.01.jpg "480 Otis (left) and 399 (right) June 29, 2022 photo by Melissa Freels .01.jpg (1.53 MB)")
_and_399_(right)_June_29,_2022_photo_by_Melissa_Freels_.02.jpg "480 Otis (left) and 399 (right) June 29, 2022 photo by Melissa Freels .02.jpg (1.15 MB)")
480 Otis meet the new boar 399, 6/29/2022 video by JG.
480 Otis heads to the conveyer and quickly catches a fish, 6/29/2022 video by Flyer 4477.
2022.06.30: Truman Evert's June 30, 2022 photo of 480 Otis. "The photo shows the mist of the falls on his face." Truman Evert's 6/30/2022 photo of 480 Otis. Truman's 6/30/2022 photo of 480 Otis. Truman's 6/30/3033 photo of 480 Otis. "Grampa still seems to be able to focus pretty damned well, when he wants to." Truman's 6/30/2022 photo of 480 Otis.
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
Betsy Bear's 6/30/2022 photo of 854 Divot (right) with 480 Otis (left).
Please request BetsyBear's permission prior to using her photographs!
_and_854_Divot_(right)_June_30,_2022_photo_by_Betsy_Bear_.01.jpeg "480 Otis (left) and 854 Divot (right) June 30, 2022 photo by Betsy Bear .01.jpeg (201 KB)")
480 Otis close up video by JG.
July 2022:[]
480 Otis appears on the list of Bears Monitored in July 2022.
2022.07.01: 480 Otis 7/1/2022 NPS photo by C Rohdenberg KNP&P Flickr.
Truman Evert's 7/1/2022 photo of 480 Otis. 480 Otis close-up of "the beloved reigning Fat Bear King", 7/1/2022 photo by Truman Everts. 480 Otis "chasing a fish with his eyes", 7/1/2022 photo by Truman Everts. Truman Evert's 7/1/2022 photo of 480 Otis.
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
2022.07.02: Truman's 7/2/2022 black and white photo of 480 Otis. 480 Otis at the falls, 7/2/2022 photo by Truman Everts. Truman Evert's 7/2/2022 photo of 480 Otis. Truman Evert's 7/2/2022 photo of 480 Otis. "To have 480 (aka: "Otis") not only show up, but show up early [29 June?], and looking damn near flawless, was a huge treat, in early season." Truman Evert's "Portrait of the elder statesman of Brooks Camp", 7/2/2022 photo.
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
2022.07.03: 480 Otis 7/3/2022 NPS photo by C Kliesrath KNP&P Flickr.
480 Otis (left) politely reminds 801 (right) to "get off his lawn", 7/3/2022 photo by Truman Everts.
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
_and_801_(right)_July_3,_2022_photo_by_Truman_Everts_.01.jpg "480 Otis (left) and 801 (right) July 3, 2022 photo by Truman Everts .01.jpg (855 KB)")
2022.07.04: 480 Otis naps in his day bed, 7/4/2022 photo by Truman Everts. 480 Otis pounces for fish in the office, 7/4/2022 photo by Truman Everts.
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
2022.07.05: Truman Evert's 7/5/2022 photo of 480 Otis. "What a difference a year makes...in a good way!" Truman Evert's 7/5/2022 photo of 480 Otis, "Here 480 (aka: "Otis") sinks that tooth in, and gets a step closer to a winter den win." 480 Otis appears to be sleeping standing up, 7/5/2022 photo by Truman Everts.
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
2022.07.06: 480 in the office, 7/6/2022 photo by Truman Everts." Truman Evert's 7/6/2022 photo of 480 Otis. 480 Otis photo by Truman Everts, 7/6/2022. ""Well, of course I want you, tasty little salmon scrap...but you're waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaayyy over there!" Truman's 7/6/2022 photo of 480 Otis. "This is how I'll always think of Mr. 480 (aka: "Otis"): in The Office...zen pose...just willing the salmon to come to him."
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
480 Otis acts interested in 435 Holly and 912 catches fish, 7/6/2022 video by Jen Schneider.
480 Otis acts interested in 435 Holly & 912 catches fish Brooks Falls cam Explore.org 7-6-2022
Video by Jen Schneider
2022.07.08: NWBearLove92's 7/8/2022 photo of 480 Otis. "480 Otis with a fresh catch near the waterfall. He looks great this year. 7/8/22." NWBearLove92's 7/8/2022 photo of 480 Otis. "Happy 480 Otis Day! It was great to see him in person this year. I missed him last year. He looks great! 480 in his office on 7/8/22."
Please request Amy's (aka NWBEARLOVE92) permission prior to using any of her photographs!
2022.07.10:
2022.07.11: 480 Otis 7/11/2022 NPS photos by L Law KNP&P Flickr, #1 and #2.
2022.07.13: Four-time Fat Bear Week champion, 480 Otis, fishes in his office, gets challenged by multiple bears at the falls, including 151 Walker, and almost falls asleep in the river. Otis shows off his skill with an efficient fish catch! Will Otis repeat as Fat Beat Champion? July 13, 2022 (per original entry) video posted by Roadtrip Ramblers.
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2022.07.21:
2022 07.23: 480 Otis 7/23/2022 NPS photo by L Law KNP&P Flickr.
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2022.07.31: A standoff at the Katmai Corral between 32 Chunk (left), 747 (center) and 480 Otis (right), 7/31/2022 video by Cheryl B. 480 Otis is mostly a bystander while 747 lets 32 Chunk know who is boss.
7-31-2022 BF Stand off @ the Katmai Corral 32 -747- 480 Never show your backside Explore.org
Video by Cheryl B
August 2022:[]
2022.08.11: 27 won't move for 480 Otis and later gets a butt bite, 8/11/2022 video by mckate. "I'm kind of surprised that he didn't let Otis have the conveyor belt after getting bit. It must be nerve-wracking knowing that Otis is just waiting for his next opportunity to sink his teeth and/or gums into your backside."
2022.08.17: Grumpy old bears 747 and 480 Otis sit across from each other and vocalize, 8/17/2022 video by JG.
2022.08.30: 856 backs 480 Otis against the falls, 8/30/2022 video by mckate. "I think this was the sequence of events. 856 displaced Otis from the office and, rather than move downstream, Otis stood watching 856 hoping to eventually regain the spot. 856 grew tired of being stared at and went over to give Otis the word. As 856 walked away, Otis growled at him which raised his ire so he forced Otis up against the falls. We know how much Otis hates being splashed, so being drenched this way was probably the worst part for him. These boars need more fish."
2022.08.31: 480 Otis gets drenched again, 8/31/2022 video by mckate. 747 is seen on the conveyer. "856 displaced 480 from the office again, and Otis found himself trapped in the corner for a good 10 minutes. I think 856 had forgotten that he was back there until Otis tried to sneak by. He needs a better plan!"
September 2022:[]
480 Otis appears on the list of Bears Monitored in September 2022.
2022.09.01: NWBearLove92's 9/1/2022 photo of 480 Otis. "480 Otis looks very handsome with his colorful fall coat. 9/1/22." NWBearLove92's 9/1/2022 photo of 480 Otis. "480 Otis with his big belly on full display. We don’t usually see him completely out of the water like this. His “7” is very visible and his fur pattern is gorgeous. 9/1/22."
Please request Amy's (aka NWBEARLOVE92) permission prior to using any of her photographs!
2022.09.02: NWBearLove92's 9/2/2022 photo of 480 Otis. "480 Otis glowing in some rare evening sun at the falls. 9/2/22." NWBearLove92's 9/2/2022 photo of 480 Otis. "The wise eyes of 480 Otis. 9/2/22." NWBearLove92's 9/2/2022 photo of 480 Otis. "480 Otis looking fabulous this year! 9/2/22." Amy (NWBEARLOVE92)'s 9/2/2022 photo of 480 Otis and 32 Chunk. "480 Otis was upset with 32 Chunk for not letting him pass by. 856 displaced 480 in the office and he was trying to get out of the way. 9/2/22." Amy (NWBEARLOVE92)'s 9/2/2022 photo of 907 and 480 Otis. "480 Otis did not want to share the jacuzzi with 907. He was very vocal about his disapproval. 9/2/22." Amy (NWBEARLOVE92)'s 9/2/2022 photo of 480 Otis. "480 Otis is grateful to all his adoring fans for their support. He admits that 901 is a very chunky sow and he’s happy to share his crown with a new FBW winner for 2022. Photo from 9/2/22."
Please request Amy's (aka NWBEARLOVE92) permission prior to using any of her photographs!
_and_32_Chunk_(right)_September_2,_2022_photo_by_Amy_(NWBEARLOVE92)_.01.jpg "480 Otis (left) and 32 Chunk (right) September 2, 2022 photo by Amy (NWBEARLOVE92) .01.jpg (2.57 MB)")
_and_480_Otis_(far)_September_2,_2022_photo_by_Amy_(NWBEARLOVE92)_.02.jpg "907 (near) and 480 Otis (far) September 2, 2022 photo by Amy (NWBEARLOVE92) .02.jpg (1.89 MB)")
_.05.jpg "480 Otis September 2, 2022 photo by Amy (NWBEARLOVE92) .05.jpg (3.21 MB)")
Brianna B's 9/2/2022 video, 480 Otis grumbles at 907. 907, 164 and 903 just want to play.
2022.09.03: Park visitor Brianna B's 9/3/2022 video of 480 Otis approaching the falls from the riffles.
2022.09.06: Cam viewer and Brooks Camp visitor bubdoggy shared two 9/6/2022 photos of 634 Popeye and 480 Otis on 1/22/2023, #1 and #2. "634 Popeye and 480 Otis on 9/6/22. This series of photos were taken from the Riffles platform. Otis is scratching his ear, or maybe just trying to hear whatever Popeye is telling him!." Bubdoggy shared a 9/6/2022 photo of 634 Popeye and 480 Otis on 1/22/2023. "634 Popeye comes down the hill as 480 Otis watches him on 9/6/22." Bubdoggy shared a 9/6/2022 photo of 634 Popeye and 480 Otis on 1/22/2023. "634 Popeye and 480 Otis meeting at Alice's restaurant on September 6, 2022."
Please request bubdoggy's permission prior to using their photographs!
_and_480_Otis_(right)_September_6,_2022_photo_by_bubdoggy_.01.jpg "634 Popeye (left) and 480 Otis (right) September 6, 2022 photo by bubdoggy .01.jpg (4.29 MB)")
_and_480_Otis_(right)_September_6,_2022_photo_by_bubdoggy_.02.jpg "634 Popeye (left) and 480 Otis (right) September 6, 2022 photo by bubdoggy .02.jpg (4.23 MB)")
_and_480_Otis_(right)_September_6,_2022_photo_by_bubdoggy_.03.jpg "634 Popeye (left) and 480 Otis (right) September 6, 2022 photo by bubdoggy .03.jpg (4.34 MB)")
_and_480_Otis_(right)_September_6,_2022_photo_by_bubdoggy_.04.jpg "634 Popeye (left) and 480 Otis (right) September 6, 2022 photo by bubdoggy .04.jpg (4.61 MB)")
Bubdoggy's (aka Scott and Kara Jones) 9/6/2022 video of 634 Popeye coming down the hill to greet 480 Otis.
634 Popeye comes down hill to meet 480 Otis at Alice's Restaurant 090622
Video by bubdoggy (aka Scott and Kara Jones)
2022.09.09: Bubdoggy shared a 9/9/2022 photo of 151 Walker and 480 Otis 0n 5/14/2023. "For a tiny, brief moment on the evening of 9/9/22, 151 Walker greeted 480 Otis in lower river. It made me happy to see them together, especially since Walker is more likely to bug Otis these days than be friendly with him."
Please request bubdoggy's permission prior to using their photographs!
_and_480_Otis_(right)_September_9,_2022_photo_by_bubdoggy_.01.jpg "151 Walker (left) and 480 Otis (right) September 9, 2022 photo by bubdoggy .01.jpg (3.56 MB)")
2022.09.13: Olatz Azcona Munárriz shared a 9/13/2022 photo of 480 Otis on 12/23/2022. Olatz shared a 9/13/2022 photo of 480 Otis on 12/30/2022. Olatz shared a 9/13/2022 photo of 480 Otis on 1/27/2022. Olatz shared a 9/13/2022 photo of 480 Otis on 1/18/2023.
Please request Olatz Azcona Munárriz's (aka Olatz) permission prior to using their photographs!
Olatz Azcona Munárriz's 9/13/2022 video of 480 Otis.
480 Otis. Brooks River. Katmai National Park and Preserve, Alaska. September 13th, 2022.
Video by Olatz A.M.
2022.09.14: 480 Otis 9/14/2022 NPS photos by L Law KNP&P Flickr, #1 and #2.
Olatz Azcona Munárriz shared a 9/14/2022 photo of 480 Otis on 1/13/2023. Olatz shared a 9/14/2022 photo of 480 Otis on 2/17/2023. Olatz shared a 9/14/2022 photo of 503 on 2/8/2023. Olatz's 9/13/2022 photo of 503 (left) and 480 Otis (right) sharing the far pool , shared by Olatz on 3/3/2023. "503 was able to make a few catches, yet 480 Otis was not so lucky, and looked uncomfortable having to share space in his favorite spot."
Please request Olatz Azcona Munárriz's (aka Olatz) permission prior to using their photographs!
_and_480_Otis_(right)_September_14,_2022_photo_by_Olatz_Azcona_Mun%C3%A1rriz_.01.jpg "503 (left) and 480 Otis (right) September 14, 2022 photo by Olatz Azcona Munárriz .01.jpg (3.67 MB)")
2022.09.16: Olatz Azcona Munárriz shared a 9/16/2022 photo of 480 Otis on 1/20/2023.
Please request Olatz Azcona Munárriz's (aka Olatz) permission prior to using their photographs!
2022.09.17: Olatz Azcona Munárriz shared a 9/17/2022 photo of 480 Otis on 9/21/2022. Olatz shared a 9/17/2022 photo of 480 Otis on 2/10/2023. Olatz shared four photos of 480 Otis (left) with 164 (right) on 2/10/2023, #1, #2, #3 and #4. "480 Otis greets 164 at the oxbow." Olatz shared a 9/17/2022 photo of 480 Otis on 2/24/2023.
Please request Olatz Azcona Munárriz's (aka Olatz) permission prior to using their photographs!
_and_164_(right)_September_17,_2022_photo_by_Olatz_Azcona_Mun%C3%A1rriz_.01.jpg "480 Otis (left) and 164 (right) September 17, 2022 photo by Olatz Azcona Munárriz .01.jpg (5.06 MB)")
_and_164_(right)_September_17,_2022_photo_by_Olatz_Azcona_Mun%C3%A1rriz_.02.jpg "480 Otis (left) and 164 (right) September 17, 2022 photo by Olatz Azcona Munárriz .02.jpg (5.22 MB)")
_and_164_(right)_September_17,_2022_photo_by_Olatz_Azcona_Mun%C3%A1rriz_.03.jpg "480 Otis (left) and 164 (right) September 17, 2022 photo by Olatz Azcona Munárriz .03.jpg (5.28 MB)")
_and_164_(right)_September_17,_2022_photo_by_Olatz_Azcona_Mun%C3%A1rriz_.04.jpg "480 Otis (left) and 164 (right) September 17, 2022 photo by Olatz Azcona Munárriz .04.jpg (4.8 MB)")
October 2022:[]
2023: Adult Male[]
2023 Season:[]
480 Otis was a contestant in the 2023 Fat Bear Week competition. 480 Otis' July 26, 2023 early season NPS photograph was courtesy of Ranger Naomi Boak and his September 13, 2023 late season NPS photograph was courtesy of Ranger Maurice Whalen.:
480 Otis' 2023 Fat Bear Week Contestant NPS photographs July 26, 2023 by Ranger Naomi Boak vs September 13, 2023 by Ranger Maurice Whalen
480 Otis' Biography section of the 2023 Fat Bear Week Meet the Bears information provided some 2023 season details.:
480 Otis' 2023 Fat Bear Week Meet the Bears Identification & Biography information with 2023 season details
2023 season - 480 Otis at Margot Creek (posted 10/10/23) video by bryan fulop:
Big Margot Grizzly walking our way
480 Otis at Margot Creek October 10, 2023 of prior by video bryan fulop
July 2023:[]
2023.07.26: 480 Otis was initially observed on the spit to mark his 2023 season return to Brooks Camp (see mckate's video below). 480 Otis was spotted in the lower river on the River Watch cam at 13:44 or prior. SueB captured this snapshot and commented at 13:44 about 480 Otis' return.:
mckate created this video of 480 Otis' 2023 season return from the spit, to the lower Brooks River, up the riffles and to the falls.:
26 Jul 2023- 480's Arrival From the Lower River (explore.org)
video by mckate
Michelle Celeste (aka SgtPepper) captured this video of 480 Otis returning for the 2023 season via the lower river (like he always does!).:
Otis on River Watch 7-26-2023 explore.org
video by Michelle Celeste (aka SgtPepper)
480 Otis then made his way up the river through the riffles and then eventually to the falls.
Cruiser captured this video of 480 Otis making his way up the riffles.:
480 Otis arrives via the Riffles 26Jul23 explore.org
video by Cruiser
480 Otis made his way to the falls and Cruiser captured this video of this popular bear below the falls:
480 Otis strolls in 26Jul23 explore.org
video by Cruiser
mckate captured this video of 480's 2023 season return:
26 Jul 2023- 480 Arrives! (explore.org)
video by mckate
Michelle Celeste (aka SgtPepper) captured this video of 480 Otis:
Otis returns! BF 7-26-2023
video by Michelle Celeste (aka SgtPepper)
480 Otis wastes no time showing everyone that he also maintained his successful fishing abilities and mckate captured his quick catch in this video.:
26 Jul 2023- 480 Quickly Gets a Fish (explore.org)
video by mckate
Michelle Celeste (aka SgtPepper) captured this video of 480 Otis' first catch of the 2023 season.:
Otis walks in and catches his first salmon! BF 7-26-2023
video by Michelle Celeste (aka SgtPepper)
Jami created this gif of 480 Otis making a catch on July 26, 2023 (p 14:07).:
Buddy's Mom created this video of 480 Otis' 2023 season return from the lower river to the falls:
480 Otis arrives marching through the river Explore.org 7-26-23
video by Buddy's Mom
480 Otis makes his way to the office in this video by Buddy's Mom:
BF. 480 Otis makes his way to the office. Explore.org 7-26-23
video by Buddy's Mom
UrsineFeline captured this video of 480 Otis in his office:
The King of Katmai Otis takes his throne
video by UrsineFeline
747 welcomes 480 Otis back to the Brooks River in a huge way...747 asserts dominance over 480 Otis in this gif created by Zen (p 17:34).:
Oh_Arana captured this video of 747 asserting dominance over 480 Otis:
747 pushes the old guy 480 around and does his Cowboy walk 07 26 2023 (explore.org)
video by Oh_Arana
mckate captured this video of 747's obligatory greeting to 480 Otis:
26 Jul 2023- 747 Gives 480 Obligatory "Greeting" (explore.org)-2
video by mckate
Cruiser created this gif of 480 Otis in the office (p 17:47). Scooch - Mister created this gif of 480 Otis in the office, the file is too large to upload to wiki, please click here to view the gif (p 17:48). 480 Otis makes a catch in the office in this gif created by Cruiser (p 18:32).:
480 Otis stays focused on his energy economics and continues fishing while chaos erupts from one side of the river to the other in this "Why I Love Otis" video by Chris Muir.:
Why I Love Otis 2023 07 27
video by Chris Muir
807 pirates 480 Otis' fish in this video captured by mckate:
26 Jul 2023- 807 Pirates 480's Fish (explore.org)
video by mckate
(Please note: 480 Otis was originally observed on the spit prior to the arrival described below by Nature's Folio, please see mckate's video of 480's arrival for the season)
July 26, 2023 Otis Fishing Report: You're probably wondering how we got here. :)
I'm fortunate to work from home with multiple monitors (uh... 4), so I've had RW and BF up every day since cams went live, except two. Today was one of those two. Oof.
On such days, I checked cams every 30 minutes to see if chat had exploded -- a sure sign of Otis' return. On this particular day, I was with my daughter and her newborn -- it was truly a lovely day! And at exactly 5:55 EDT, as that baby lie sleeping on my lap, I checked BF and... WAIT. THAT'S OTIS. Highlights? No. THAT'S. OTIS!
I grabbed a snap, and then I quietly, but swiftly handed off my beloved granddaughter and explained I had to leave. I have to go count fish, I said. I knew my daughter would understand -- she works at a shelter and is an animal lover herself. ♥ She did.:)
And so it began.:) I'm sure y'all, especially those of you who doubted his return, have similar stories you're going to repeat of when and where you were when Otis returned in 2023 -- just like 2021, when he also returned on July 26 -- while he meandered from one cam to the next to come home to us.
I raced home and traced Otis' tracks. TL;DR version is Kat's River View (per Tobyhannah) to River Watch (per Bommy) to Riffles (my best guess) to Brooks Falls (Otis' obvious destination).
Long version in pictures, starting at about 1:30 p.m. Katmai time:
KRV - Good eyes on Tobyhannah!
RW -- Bommy with good eyes too!
RF -Logical next appearance for a meandering sort of bear.
Nature's Folio 480 Otis July 26, 2023 Fishing Report - RF snapshot - Logical next appearance for a meandering sort of bear
BFL -- With a little pep in his step, Otis walks across the Sandbar (formerly known as the Island).
Nature's Folio 480 Otis July 26, 2023 Fishing Report - BFL snapshot - With a little pep in his step, Otis walks across the Sandbar (formerly known as the Island).
BF -- Otis is home. ♥
And that's how we got here. :)
Otis heads to the J Rock -- that rock just on the other side side of the Jacuzzi where we see bears fish from time to time. Fun fact: Otis is seen in that same spot in Disney Nature's 2014 movie Bears.
Moments, later, Otis enjoys his first (observed on the live cams) Brooks fish of the season! gif BF by SuspectCelery.
Nature's Folio 480 Otis July 26, 2023 Fishing Report - Otis enjoys his first (observed on the live cams) Brooks fish of the season! gif BF by SuspectCelery
Several minutes later, he snags another... gif BF also by SuspectCelery.
Nature's Folio 480 Otis July 26, 2023 Fishing Report - Several minutes later, he snags another... gif BF also by SuspectCelery
And then moves to the J, and catches another! gif BF by SuspectCelery
Nature's Folio 480 Otis July 26, 2023 Fishing Report - then 480 Otis moves to the jacuzzi and catches another... gif BF also by SuspectCelery
On his way back to the J, that pep in his step kicks in and gives 912 a little... uh... greeting to show who's boss (since 856, 747, 32, and 151 don't happen to be around). gif BF by Zen.
Nature's Folio 480 Otis July 26, 2023 Fishing Report - On his way back to the J, that pep in his step kicks in and gives 912 a little... uh... greeting to show who's boss (since 856, 747, 32, and 151 don't happen to be around), gif BF by Zen
Weary from his Meander Journey (probably), about 4:00 p.m. Katmai time, Otis heads off to freshen up. I'm guessing there were cocktails at a reception in his honor -- and he wouldn't want to miss that! (snapshot is BF)
Nature's Folio 480 Otis July 26, 2023 Fishing Report - Weary from his Meander Journey (probably), about 4:00 p.m. Katmai time, Otis heads off to freshen up. I'm guessing there were cocktails at a reception in his honor -- and he wouldn't want to miss that! (snapshot is BF)
An hour later, he returns, and his buddy 747 greets him at the Sandbar. You know... for old time's sake.
Nature's Folio 480 Otis July 26, 2023 Fishing Report - An hour later, he returns, and his buddy 747 greets him at the Sandbar. You know... for old time's sake.
Otis heads toward Alice's, and then to his Office to catch up on paperwork and whatnot. It's some time later, but Otis catches a big ol' juicy FISH (snapshot is BF), and then another 15 minute later.
Nature's Folio 480 Otis July 26, 2023 Fishing Report - Otis heads toward Alice's, and then to his Office to catch up on paperwork and whatnot. It's some time later, but Otis catches a big ol' juicy FISH (snapshot is BF), and then another 15 minute later
It's just before 8:00 p.m. in Katmai, and Otis has left his office for the Jacuzzi, wistful for a mouthful of salmon.
Total Fish Count between Otis arrival and my bedtime is 5 fish. But don't be sad! The fish are averaging upwards of 5 pounds this year, so we're counting 5000 calories each, and that's 25,000 calories for Otis' first few hours back!! With many more to follow!
Sending wishes for fishes and sweet salmon dreams! ♥ More tomorrow!
2023.07.27: KNP&P's 16:34 Facebook post with Ranger Felicia Jimenez's NPS photograph of 480 Otis with a salmon:
"Breaking news: 480 Otis is back!
(You can breathe again.)
480 Otis has returned to Brooks River and he's catching fish at the falls.
Bear 480 Otis, at around 28 years old, is one of the oldest bears to use Brooks River. He is a 4x Fat Bear Week champion, and people around the world eagerly await his arrival each year. Even at his age, he's still expertly catching fish and continues to surprise us. Certainly a bear to watch this season!
Photo credit: NPS Photo/F. Jimenez"
2023.07.28: 480 Otis tries to spot some fish in this video mckate captured:
28 Jul 2023- 480 Tries to Spot Some Fish (explore.org)
video by mckate
August 2023:[]
2023.08.04: 480 Otis returned to the Brooks River after his walkabout that started on July 30, 2023. mckate captured this video of 480 when he returned to his office:
4 Aug 2023- 480 Comes Back to the Office (explore.org)
video by mckate
merry_mermaid created this gif of 480 Otis fishing in the jacuzzi at 19:57 AKDT August 4, 2023 (p 08/05/23 00:13 #1).:
2023.08.04 Late Night into 2023.08.05 Early Morning: 480 Otis successful caught and ate at least 5 salmon between the late night hours of August 4, 2023 and the early morning hours of August 5, 2023. LeafyHyrax shared this successful fishing information and the August 5, 2023 video recorded by Tina M below (p 08/05/23 07:16).:
"Just to let anyone know who might have missed it and is worrying about how Otis is doing, he successfully caught and ate at least five salmon between late last night and 5:40 am AKDT this morning. That's a lot of calories and nourishment to meet daily needs and put on some weight! Here's a video of one of his catches (recorded by Tina M.)"
He got another one 2023-08-05
video by Tina M
2023.08.05: Nature's Folio created this 480 Otis Fishing Pre-Report for August 5, 2023 (p 10:18). At 12:37 AKDT Nature's Folio posted a mini update on 480 Otis's August 5, 2023 Fishing Report...480 Otis' Fish Count is at 17 Fish since midnight Katmai time. :) Good eats in his Office today! (I'll bet he's regretting filling up on salad last night before the entrees arrived! ha!)
480 Otis was fishing in the office on August 5, 2023 at 00:09 AKDT, merry_mermaid created this gif (p 08/05/23 00:13 #2). Jami created this gif of 480 Otis successfully fishing below the falls (p 00:22). Blair-55 created these gifs (#1 & #2) of 480 Otis successfully fishing in the office in the wee hours of the morning (p 05:52 from rewind). 480 Otis is so hungry that he eats the entire fish and then licks his paw in these gifs (#1, #2, #3 & #4) created by Blair-55 (p 05:38 from rewind). merry_mermaid created these gifs (#1, #2 & #3) of 480 Otis' successful fishing (p 00:30). 480 Otis was observed departing the river very early in the morning, tzusruled created this gif (p 04:11).:
480 Otis also did some fishing in the daylight morning hours in the Brooks River. Gwynne created this gif of 480 fishing near the far wall (p 07:04). Blair-55 created this gif of 480 Otis fishing from the Riffles cam (p 08:01). 480 Otis was successful at fishing and Blair-55 created this gif (p 08:11). Gwynne captured 480 Otis' success at fishing in this gif she created (p 08:12). The King of efficiency wastes no time on the tail he struggles to chew and gets right to good stuff so he can catch another! in this gif created by Meeps (p 08:13). BearlySane captured 480 Otis' FEAST MODE success below the falls in this gif (p 08:15). This salmon would have preferred that 480 Otis put them back down in the river, but 480 says "get in my belly" gif created by Oh_Arana (p 08:22). 128 Grazer (near) & 480 Otis (far) both successfully fishing in this gif created by LeafyHyrax (p 08:25). Blair-55 created these gifs (#1 & #2) of 128 Grazer's (left) unsuccessful attempt to get 480 Otis (right) to move (p 08:43). BearlySane created this close-up gif of 480 Otis on the platform side of the river (p 14:52).:
2023.08.07: 151 Walker annoys 480 Otis in this video captured by mckate:
7 Aug 2023- 151 Annoys 480 (explore.org)
video by mckate
480 Otis and 907 fish the far pool in mckate's video:
7 Aug 2023- Dizzy Duo 480 and 907 Fish the Far Pool (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.08.08: mckate captured this video when 907 was catching fish and bringing them over to the rocks where Otis was picking through the scraps looking for skin. He didn't see anything worthwhile with this last fish, but shed no tears for Otis. He ate 44 fish today, plus scraps!:
8 Aug 2023- 907 and 480 Have a Late Night Snack (explore.org)
video by mckate
907 brought fish to share with 480 Otis. Terry Miller (aka sundogsNM) counted 5 fish brought by 907. Terry Miller (aka sundogsNM) recorded 3 of the 5 share sessions.
Sharing fish is not a common behavior among brown bears, especially a boar sharing with another boar. A healthy younger boar sharing with a frail aged adult boar has been previously documented at Brooks River one other time....16 Cinnamon in 2011, the final season 16 was observed using the Brooks River. A second observation of this rare brown bear behavior begs some questions, for example: Do brown bears sense things we have not even considered? Do brown bears have the capacity to take care of one another in a desperate time of need with regard to survival? One things these amazing creatures have taught us is that even after all this time, we still have much to learn.:
Part 1 - 907 brings fish, 480 Otis protects his scrap, 907 checks it but leaves for more fishing.:
08 Aug 2023- 480 Otis and 907 share, part 1 (explore.org)
video by Terry Miller (aka sundogsNM)
Part 2 - 907 brings fish number 3, 480 Otis is full but picking at scraps.:
08 Aug 2023- 480 Otis and 970 share fish, part 2 (explore.org)
video by Terry Miller (aka sundogsNM)
Part 3 - 907 brings fish number 5, 480 Otis seems excited to see 907, but 480 mostly stares at the scraps while 907 eats.:
08 Aug 2023- 480 Otis and 970 share fish, part 3 (explore.org)
video by Terry Miller (aka sundogsNM)
In addition to the 5 salmon 907 shared with 480 Otis on August 8, 2023, 480 Otis had a successful independent fishing day of his own. Nature's Folio shared her August 8, 2023 480 Otis Fishing Report and her August 8, 2023 480 Otis Fishing Report Update.
2023.08.15: 480 Otis maximizing calorie consumption by making sure to get every single morsel. yellowrose created this gif (p 16:14), the file is too large to upload, please click here to view yellowrose's gif. Blair-55 created this gif of 480 licking to get every calorie possible (p 16:18). oregonshefisher created this gif that provides a good look at the size of 480 Otis' scrotum and testicles (p 19:11).:
151 Walker enters stage left to displace 480 Otis in this video mckate captured:
15 Aug 2023- 151 Enters Stage Left to Displace 480 (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.08.17: 480 Otis in infrared lighting in the early morning hours of August 17, 2023: Pine Butte captured this snapshot (p 02:47). Oh_Arana created this gif of 480 in the spotlight (p 03:37).:
2023.08.18: Goldilocks, Canada shared the following information with cam viewers on August 18, 2023 at 18:58:
"Have been pondering, all season, whether Explore’s re-installation of the infrared light at the falls has influenced 480/Otis’ success at night fishing. My thought was…..Bears do not see infrared lights but, do salmon???
Finally took time to do some reading/research. After much reading I just want to say…..
Thank you Explore for helping the dear Old Man in his determined effort to survive!!!! Conversely, I can’t help but ponder does that conflict with the “non interference” policy…..I pondered that briefly, my emotional thoughts centre…..influenced by my deep love for Otis and wanting to see him thrive, is saying who gives a damn. My logical thoughts centre is still pondering the ethics.
Salmon, as they leave the oceans and enter river systems to return to their natal streams, have an enzyme that switches their vision to making use of/seeing using the infrared light spectrum. It allows them to see much better in the murky, turbid waters of rivers and streams.
Infrared light can penetrate water for a couple of metres depth.
Are the salmon attracted to the office area, at night, because they can see much better over there???????"
Freshwater fish, amphibians supercharge their ability to see infrared light by Tamara Bhandari, November 15, 2015, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis
"For nearly a century, scientists have puzzled over how salmon as well as other freshwater fish and amphibians, including frogs, easily shift their vision from marine or terrestrial environments – where the light environment is blue-green – to the waters of inland steams. In such streams, mud, algae and other particles filter out light from the blue end of the visual spectrum, creating a light environment that shifts to the red and infrared end of the spectrum."
"We’ve discovered an enzyme that switches the visual systems of some fish and amphibians and supercharges their ability to see infrared light,” said senior author Joseph Corbo, MD, PhD, associate professor of pathology and immunology. “For example, when salmon migrate from the ocean to inland streams, they turn on this enzyme, activating a chemical reaction that shifts the visual system, helping the fish peer more deeply into murky water."
Thank you Goldilocks, Canada for sharing your thoughts and research with us! The education and interpretation you have shared over the years is priceless and greatly appreciated!
480 Otis gathered some fluff for his daybed, Cruiser created this gif (p 16:00). 480 Otis gently added his gathered fluff to his daybed; Blair-55 created these gifs (#1 & #2) (p 16:28 from rewind):
480 Otis did some rubbing, chewing, and resting on a tree branch after his cozy nap. SuspectCelery created this gif (p 19:30). Jami created this gif (p 19:40). Jami's file is too large to be uploaded, please click here to view Jami's gif. Blair-55 created these gifs (#1, #2, #3 & #4) (p 20:29).:
2023.08.20: Magpie to 480 Otis: "Tag, you're it!" Gif created by JG (p 14:28).:
151 Walker tries to pirate, 480 Otis has the last laugh in the end by miraculously finding that fish in this video by mckate:
20 Aug 2023- 151 Tries to Pirate, 480 Has Last Laugh (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.08.21: 151 Walker (near), 480 Otis (center) and 128 Grazer fish the far side of the river in this video mckate captured:
21 Aug 2023- 128 Splashes Around 480 (explore.org)
video by mckate
128 Grazer splashes around 480 Otis in this video by mckate:
21 Aug 2023- 128 Splashes Around 480 (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.08.22: 480 Otis heading left along the bank above the falls gif created by Blair-55 (p 15:22). 2 AkAussies captured these snapshots (#1 & #2) of 480 Otis heading down the riffles (p 21:40). leeseeyzzz captured this snapshot of 480 Otis arriving in the lower river (p 21:59). Blair-55 created these gifs (#1, #2, #3 & #4) of 480 Otis fishing in the lower river (p 08/23/23 04:47 from rewind).:
Allie W captured this video of 480 Otis fishing the lower river:
Katmai Brown Bear 480 "Otis" - River Watch Cam, August 22, 10 p.m. AK time
video by Allie W
Terry Miller (aka sundogsNM) captured this video of 480 Otis in the lower river:
22 Aug 2023- 480 Otis on lower river late night (explore.org)
video by Terry Miller (aka sundogsNM)
September 2023:[]
2023.09.08: 480 Otis returns from his walkabout in this video by mckate:
8 Sep 2023- 480 Returns from His Walkabout (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.09.09: mckate captured this video of 480 Otis taking a break:
9 Sep 2023- 480 Takes a Break (explore.org)
video by mckate
435 Holly and 480 Otis, beloved Brooks River elders, share the far pool in this video captured by mckate:
9 Sep 2023- Beloved Brooks Elders Share the Far Pool (explore.org)
video by mckate
602 splashes 480 Otis in this gif created by LeafyHyrax (p 11:32).:
2023.09.21: 480 Otis walks by the underwater cam. There is just no escaping 480 Otis' dangly bits in this video by mckate:
21 Sep 2023- 480 Walks By the Underwater Cam (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.09.23: 230 "Ben" watches 480 Otis fish in this video mckate captured:
23 Sep 2023- 230 Watches 480 Fish (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.09.24: 480 Otis fishes over 164 "Bucky Dent's" shoulder in mckate's video:
24 Sep 2023- 480 Fishes Over 164's Shoulder (explore.org)
video by mckate
480 Otis eats his catch in his downward bear pose, mckate captured this video:
24 Sep 2023- 480 Eats from His Downward Bear Pose (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.09.28: 132 bluff charges 480 Otis in this video captured by mckate. 480 Otis looked incredulous, as well he should have, and managed to very slowly inch away from the gang. Poor old guy.:
28 Sep 2023- 132 Bluff Charges 480 (explore.org)
video by mckate
October 2023:[]
2023.10.04: 480 Otis hangs out with 164 "Bucky Dent" in this video captured by mckate:
4 Oct 2023- 480 Hangs Out with 164 (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.10.06: In Match 6 of the 2023 Fat Bear Week competition, 480 Otis, a four time Fat Bear Week Champion went pound for pound against the 2022 Fat Bear Week competition runner-up, 901. This match was a battle of survivors...Massive mama 901 survived her first year as a single mom who works two jobs, who loves her kids and never stops; and 480 Otis, the GOATis has survived more Fat Bear Week competitions than any other bear and despite his late 2023 scrawny-sized season arrival, he lost no time going from gaunt to gargantuan. Fat Bear Week voters selected their survivor in this match with 901 earning 78, 013 votes and 480 Otis earning 38,580 votes. 480 Otis may have lost this round to 901 in the 2023 Fat Bear Week competition, but from the fierce comments in the bearcam chat today, 480 clearly still holds the hearts of countless cam viewers as the most loved bear that utilizes the Brooks River.
2023.10.11: mckate captured this video of 480 Otis popping into the office:
11 Oct 2023- 480 Pops Into the Office (explore.org)
video by mckate
480 Otis chases some bear in mckate's video:
11 Oct 2023- 480 Chases Somebear (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.10.13: 480 Otis takes the road (path) less traveled in this video captured by mckate:
13 Oct 2023- 480 Takes the Road Less Traveled (explore.org)
video by mckate
2023.10.15: 708 family group and 910 family group complicate 480 Otis' trail walk in this video mckate captured. It looked like 480 was really hoping the 910 blended family group would move so that he didn't have to face that steep bank. Now 480 probably remembers why he usually takes the water route to the lower river.
You can read more about this interaction between 480 Otis and the family groups in Nature Folio's October 15, 2023 480 Otis Fishing Report that includes snapshots and an additional video.:
15 Oct 2023- 708s and 910s Complicate 480's Trail Walk (explore.org)
video by mckate
Otis Various Seasons ~ Exact Year Unknown:[]
2022 Season or Prior:[]
Roadtrip Ramblers captured this video footage of 480 Otis that was uploaded to YouTube on September 11, 2022:
Katmai National Park - Bear 480 Otis-3
video by Roadtrip Ramblers
2012 - 2019 Seasons:[]
Xander-Sage created this gif of 480 Otis in the lower river (p 01/26/2020 08:13 ). Xander-Sage shared these snapshots and art (#1 , #2 , #3 , #4 & # 5 ) (p 01/26/2020 08:29 ). Xander-Sage created this gifs (#1 , #2 need to figure out other bears in gif, #3 & #4 ) of 480 (p 01/26/2020 08:35 ). Xander-Sage shared these snapshots (#1 & #2 ) of 480 (p 01/26/2020 08:50 ). Xander-Sage created this artwork (#1 , #2 , #3 #4 & #5 ) of 480 Otis between the 2012 - 2019 seasons( p 01/26/2020 09:19 ) GreenRiver captured this snapshot of 480 Otis pretending to be a walrus (p 01/26/2020 15:49 ). GreenRiver created this meme of 480 Otis between the 2012-2019 seasons (p 01/26/2020 16:00 ). GreenRiver shared this snapshot of 480 Otis from between 2012-2019 seasons (p 01/26/2020 16:37 ). Deelynnd shared this snapshot of 480 (p 01/25/2020 10:35 ). Xander-Sage created this gif of 480 (p 01/25/2020 10:57 ). Xander-Sage created this gif of 480 (p 01/25/2020 11:00 ). Xander-Sage created this gif of 480 (p 01/25/2020 11:07 ). GreenRiver shared this artwork of 480 Otis from the 2012 - 2019 seasons (p 01/26/:2020 02:14 ).
2016 - 2019:[]
Truman Everts shared these photographs of 480 Otis (#1 , #2 , #3 , #4 & #5 ) taken between the 2016 - 2019 seasons (p 01/26/2020 09:32 ).:
Please request Truman Everts' permission prior to using his photographs!
2017-2019:[]
GreenRiver created this artwork of 480 Otis in the jacuzzi and 821 on the lip between the 2017 - 2019 seasons (p 01/26/2020 15:53 ).
480 Otis Fishing Reports:[]
480 Otis has a website dedicated to documenting the number of fish he eats each day during the Brooks River live cam seasons. Now of course 480 Otis must consume those fish in view of the live cams along the Brooks River that are available through the partnership between Katmai National Park & Preserve and Explore.org for those fish to be counted. Nature's Folio provides a daily 480 Otis Fishing Report on the website.
OtisFishingReport.com is a collection of Otis Fishing Reports. Otis’ goal? Get fat! Seriously. He yearns to gain enough weight to get through another year of hibernation. And to that end, Otis loves to eat wild Alaskan sockeye salmon. Explore the Secret Sauce page of OtisFishingReport.com to discover what an Otis fishing report is, why the Otis fishing report was started, how to decode the Otis fishing report lingo (abbreviations that appear in the report), and how to comment on the Otis fishing reports.
Thank you Nature's Folio for your years of hard work creating the 480 Otis Fishing Report!
CONGRATULATIONS for taking the top position on the virtual winners podium of the Otis Fish Count Olympics…..for the third year in a row.. As the best of the best, you have perfected your skills. Through extensive, rigorous training you have honed your brain, eyes and intuition to a level surpassed by none!!!!
How 480 Otis Got His Nickname:[]
The origin of 480 Otis' name is not known; it is not recorded in the bear monitoring data base. Sometimes names are just given arbitrarily and Ranger Mike said that he would be willing to bet that is the case with Otis...someone just liked that name Otis.
...After more investigative magic by Mike Fitz...the answer is revealed!
On 7/4/2019 during a Play-by-Play at Brooks Falls, Mike Fitz explained how 480 got his nickname . Mike said "This is number 480, he is nicknamed Otis. He got that nickname actually because of the shape of his ears, just oval shaped ears. Maybe it doesn't make that much sense to go from oval shape to Otis but that is how he got his nickname." Unfortunately the video of the 07/04/19 play-by-play, linked above, is not currently available. Fortunately Mazey had transcribed the above information from that play-by-play and added it to the wiki. THANK YOU MAZEY for preserving the answer to the frequently asked question: "How did 480 Otis get his nickname?"!
Fun Facts About 480 Otis:[]
- In 2003, 480 Otis was observed playing with many bears, including 489 Ted and 634 Popeye .
- 480 Otis was the inspiration bear for the 2008 Katmai National Park booster pin.
- 480 Otis appears in the 2014 Disney Nature movie, Bears; the footage of 480 was captured during the 2012 and / or 2013 seasons.
- 480 Otis was observed being chased out of the far pool by 415 , an aggressive adult female with a smaller stature.
- Melissa Freels captured 480 Otis at Margot Creek in September of 2019. Thank you Melissa for documenting 480's use of other food resources when he disperses from the Brooks River area.
- You never know where epic naps will lead (p 01/26/2020 06:49 )....
- 480 Otis is the only Brooks River bear that has a website dedicated to the number of fish he eats each day! (as of August 10, 2023)
- The size of 480 Otis' scrotum and testicles have been a topic of discussion in multiple consecutive seasons. As the size of 480 Otis' male parts increased over the years, the number of times the topic of discussion came up increased as well.
480 Otis' Testicles & Scrotum ~ The Size of Them:[]
The size of 480 Otis' testicles and scrotum have been a topic of discussion in multiple consecutive seasons. As the size of 480 Otis' male parts increased over the years, the number of times the topic of discussion came up increased as well.
On August 15, 2023 oregonshefisher created this gif that provides a good look at the size of 480 Otis' scrotum and testicles (p 19:11). On August 18, 2023 480 Otis and the lighting of the "golden hour" provided perfect conditions for snapshot opportunities. Cam viewers captured and shared these snapshots: Lizbet ( #1 p 19:02), Jacqueline CA cp 2016 (#2 p 19:02), Rolling Trouble (WA 2019) (#3 p 19:02) & (#4 p 19:03) and BearLove56 (#5 p 19:03).:
480 Otis even flashed his dangly bits on the underwater cam on September 21, 2023; mckate's video.:
21 Sep 2023- 480 Walks By the Underwater Cam (explore.org)
video by mckate
Known Courting & Mating:[]
480 Otis has almost mastered keeping his courting and mating behaviors from being captured by cam viewers and park visitors (or at least he has benefited from much of it being hard to locate for sharing). However, a little is now known about 480's reproductive adventures:
2017:[]
94 or 289 Courting & Mating: (Note: on 7/9/2017 Mike Fitz thought this looked like 94 being courted by 480 Otis )[]
2017.07.09: 480 Otis courting an adult female video by Brenda D. Note: Video unavailable as of 2021. Thumbnail left for context.
Could Brenda D's video above be the prequel to Anna-Marie's July 9, 2017 photo of 480 Otis mating that was taken at Brooks Camp?
Anna-Marie shared some additional information about her photo:
The photo "was taken from the Treehouse. Otis and the female (might be 289) were under the walkway between the treehouse and the riffles platform ". "Right after the mating, both bears showed up down by the riffles and moved up toward the Falls. Another bear followed her up the path on the other side of the river and then Otis followed them! "
Please request Anna-Marie's permission prior to using her photos!
2018:[]
708 Amelia: 480 Otis was observed courting 708 Amelia sometime between June 21, 2018 and July 9, 2018[]
708 Amelia was observed being courted by 480 Otis between June 21, 2018 and July 9, 2018 .:
Please request Mocha's permission prior to using her photos!
Known Relatives:[]
480 Otis is currently not known to have sired any offspring that use the Brooks River, In 2005 - 2006 a genetics study was done by collecting hair and tissue samples; no known offspring of 480 Otis were discovered. A genetics study by Ranger Michael Saxton is underway (2016 - 2018) at Brooks River and we may find out if he in fact does have offspring that use the river.
Genetics Study Samples Obtained:[]
2006: Successfully darted by Wildlife Biologist, Ranger Tamara Olson[]
480 Otis was successfully darted by Wildlife Biologist, Ranger Tamara Olson in 2006.
2016: Unsuccessful attempt to dart by Ranger Michael Saxton[]
October 2016:[]
2016.10.05: Ranger Michael Saxton made an attempt to secure a proper darting position in close proximity to 480 Otis, but was unable to attempt darting. Melissa Freels captured this video of the unsuccessful attempt to secure a proper position:
2018: Successfully Darted by Ranger Michael Saxton[]
October 2018:[]
2018.10.07: 480 Otis was possibly successfully darted by Ranger Michael Saxton for the genetics study. Cruisesr created this gif of Ranger Michael Saxton's attempt to dart 480 Otis (p 01/26/2020 06:30 ).:
LaniH captured this video :
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My Ode to 480 Otis by Goldilocks, Canada:[]
Sung to "Sitting on the Dock of the Bay" by OTIS Redding
Sitting in the office mist
It's amazing how we coexist
Watching the salmon jump
I'm striving to get pleasantly plump, yeah
I'm sitting at the base of the falls
In bright sun or driving squalls, ooh
I'm just sitting at the base of the falls
So sublime
I left my den on dumpling
Headed for the river deep
Have to catch me high fat salmon
In preparation for my long, cold sleep
So, I'm gon' sit at the base of the falls
Following my protocols, ooh
No sows in estrus or nasty brawls
Summertime
In the heart of my home range
Everything still remains the same
Now, covered in a snowy blanket of white
The granite walls echo my name, listen
Sleeping now resting my bones
While you worry about all the unknowns, listen
The walls echo my name
Nothing will extinguish my flame
Forever, I'll be sitting in the mist
In eternal salmon bliss, ooh
Sitting at the base of the falls
Wintertime
A special thank you got Stmango for the NPS photos from the 2012 Brown Bears of Brooks Camp iBook.
A special thank you to Xander-Sage for creating the gif of NPS photos from the 2012 Brown Bears of Brooks Camp iBook.
TRYING TO DISCOVER WHO ADDED THE FOLLOWING SLIDER TO 480'S PAGE:[]
Comparison pictures of 480 Otis
