Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

21st Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Black bear and cubs in Shenandoah National Park

As I was driving through Shenandoah National Park I passed a mother black bear with two cubs. I stopped at the side of the road at a safe distance and observed them. She stood watch as the two attempted to climb a tree. The second one is un-pictured because he had just attempted to climb the tree but fell behind his mother! I liked this shot in particular because it shows the diligence of the mother watching out for her cubs, while a cub displays curiosity towards me.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 04.2023
Date Uploaded: 11.2023
Photo Location: Virginia, United States of America
Camera: NIKON D3300
Copyright: © Samantha Moy