A big sow with two cubs born this year, referred to by rangers as "spring" cubs, or "springers." In this and the next few photos, you can really see the resemblance to the classic North American Grizzly. Grizzlies ARE in fact the same species of brown bears as these Katmai bears. Katmai (and Kodiak) bears are simply much larger (roughly double in size) because of the abundance of protein (salmon) in their diet.
Cubs play and explore in total security when near their protective mother. I can see why; I wouldn't want to mess with her!
