Fat Bear Week, a popular event held by a remote Alaska national park, attracted millions of viewers this month as cameras captured chubby bears preparing for winter. However, the exciting world of wildlife is not limited to remote areas; it can also be found close to home in Anchorage, Alaska. A Facebook group called Muldoon Area Trail Photos and Videos has gained popularity for featuring footage of various animals captured by trail cameras, including wolverines, moose, and even a wolf pack taking down a moose yearling. The group offers a glimpse into the wildlife that resides within half a mile of a well-populated neighborhood in Anchorage.
Anchorage is home to nearly 350 black bears, 65 brown bears, and 1,600 moose, in addition to its human residents. The Facebook group, run by retired tribal health worker Joe Cantil and retired science education professor Donna Gail Shaw, showcases videos captured by ten different cameras positioned in the area. The cameras have captured a wide range of animals, from lynx and wolves to eagles and coyotes, providing a unique perspective on the local wildlife population. Cantil and Shaw both share a passion for wildlife and technology, which led them to create the Facebook group to share their camera footage with the public.
The idea for the Facebook group originated when Cantil observed wildlife during a hunting trip near Fairbanks and noticed wildlife officials setting up cameras to monitor predators. This experience inspired him to start his own wildlife camera project in Anchorage. Shaw, on the other hand, was introduced to the concept by Cantil and began setting up her own cameras in Far North Bicentennial Park. Together, they have created a platform that allows residents and wildlife enthusiasts to witness the beauty and diversity of local wildlife from the comfort of their homes.
Shaw’s cameras are strategically placed in the park, capturing animals such as wolves, coyotes, and bears in their natural habitat. As an added safety measure, she carries an air horn, bear spray, and a handgun when checking and maintaining the cameras. Many residents of Anchorage follow the Facebook group to stay informed about the wildlife in the area and to appreciate the beauty of nature. Shaw’s cameras have also captured rare moments, such as a pack of five wolves silently passing through the park, showcasing the untamed wilderness that exists alongside urban development.
Despite the growing demand for more cameras and footage, Shaw has capped the number of cameras at nine, ensuring that she can manage the content effectively. The Facebook group continues to attract followers, from local residents seeking updates on wildlife activity to out-of-state viewers who enjoy observing Alaska’s diverse wildlife population. Shaw’s dedication to documenting wildlife through trail cameras has provided a unique opportunity for people to connect with nature and gain a deeper appreciation for the wildlife that coexists with humans in Anchorage.
The popularity of the Muldoon Area Trail Photos and Videos Facebook group highlights the fascination and admiration that people have for wildlife, even in urban settings. By showcasing the daily lives of animals like bears, moose, and wolves, the group offers a glimpse into the natural world that thrives just beyond the city limits. As technology continues to advance, opportunities to observe and learn about wildlife from a distance will only increase, providing valuable insights into the behavior and interactions of animals in their natural environment. Ultimately, the success of the group demonstrates the universal appeal of connecting with nature and appreciating the beauty of the world around us.
