Bear Charges at NHL Seattle Kraken Mascot Filming in Alaska Wilderness
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A recent incident in Alaska’s Katmai National Park captured the attention of many as a bear charged at the NHL Seattle Kraken’s mascot, Buoy the sea troll, while filming in the Alaskan wilderness. The heart-stopping moment was shared on the team’s social media, showcasing the close encounter between the wild grizzly bear and the unsuspecting mascot.
In the video shared online, Kraken center John Hayden narrated the experience, explaining how the team had a tense moment with a couple of bears while out fly fishing in the park. The footage showed Hayden fishing in a stream, with a brown grizzly bear emerging from the woods and heading towards their location. As the bear approached, Hayden and the crew quickly decided to move downstream to avoid any potential danger.

The situation escalated when the bear seemed to follow them, dipping into the stream and heading in their direction. The tension heightened as the bear spotted Buoy the sea troll, who was also with the team fly fishing. The bear let out a roar and charged towards the mascot, creating a nail-biting moment as Buoy hurried to evade the wild animal. Fortunately, the bear stopped just a few feet away from Buoy, sparing the mascot from harm.
Despite the close call, Hayden reassured viewers that they managed to escape unscathed. Reflecting on the incident, he suggested that the bear’s interest in the mascot’s appearance might have led to the encounter. The video captured the intensity of the moment, showcasing the proximity of the bear to the team and the relief as they safely moved away from the bear’s path.
The team’s social media post garnered attention online, with viewers expressing both concern and amusement at the dramatic footage. Commenters shared their own wildlife encounters, with one person recalling a similar encounter with a bull moose while hiking, and another playfully speculating on the bear’s perception of Buoy. The incident served as a reminder of the importance of respecting wildlife in their natural habitat and staying cautious during outdoor adventures.
This harrowing experience took place during the Seattle Kraken’s annual community engagement partnership trip with the Bristol Bay Native Corporation in Alaska. The trip included various activities, such as the team’s involvement with the Anchorage Hockey Academy’s youth hockey camp. The encounter with the bear added an unexpected twist to their journey, highlighting the unpredictable nature of wildlife encounters in the wilderness.
As the video circulated online, it sparked conversations about wildlife safety and the thrill of encountering nature up close. The team’s quick thinking and response to the bear’s approach demonstrated the importance of remaining vigilant and calm in such situations. While the incident provided a moment of adrenaline for the team and viewers alike, it ultimately served as a reminder of the awe-inspiring yet unpredictable encounters one can experience in the wild.
The aftermath of the bear’s charge left an indelible mark on the team, underscoring the significance of wildlife conservation and coexisting harmoniously with the natural environment. The incident served as a testament to the resilience and adaptability required when exploring the great outdoors, where every moment presents a new adventure and a renewed appreciation for the wonders of the wilderness.
