Fall 2002

"A Walk in the Wild" by Charlie Russell

Charlie Russell has always had a different approach to understanding bears.

As a child growing up in Alberta's grizzly country, he worked with his father Andy to learn about grizzly and black bears. Later, as a guide in B.C.'s Khutzeymateen Valley, his knowledge of and appreciation for bears grew steadily. Subsequently, his unique approach has taken him to Princess Royal Island to study the rare kermode "Spirit Bear" and to the Kamchatka Peninsula in eastern Russia to observe and live with grizzlies.

During 40 years of research, he has developed an uncanny ability to communicate that his intentions are peaceful which puts bears at ease. He describes his studies as more "sociological" than biological and his experiences have brought a new dimension to human/bear interactions, based on people developing a wilderness etiquette. His theories are at odds with current practices in North America and provide food for thought.

In an illustrated talk, this naturalist/journalist will share the reason he has spent four decades with bears, what he has learned, and the need for safer co-existence. His passion for understanding bears and his close encounters may change your impression of these fascinating creatures.

Mr. Russell is the author of Spirit Bear: Encounters with the White Bear of the Western Rainforest and the recently released Grizzly Heart: Living Without Fear Among the Brown Bears of Kamchatka and has contributed to numerous magazines including Canadian Geographic and Beautiful British Columbia.

This personal, informal presentation will appeal to everyone in the family!

The author will be available to sign copies of his new book Grizzly Heart, published by Random House Canada, which will be for sale at the lectures.

Visit Charlie Russell's website