The 14ft Anchorage Airport Bear Display: Guarding The Gateway to Alaska
The Anchorage Ted Stevens International Airport isn’t just your ordinary travel hub. It’s also home to one of Alaska’s most impressive residents: a 14 feet tall brown bear. Lovingly referred to by locals as Teddy, this full-bodied Alaskan brown bear mount has become a staple sight at the arrivals terminal.
The Mighty Brown Bear
Let us take a moment to talk about the brown bear, which is Ursus arctos in the Latin parlance. Renowned for their remarkable strength and ability to survive the harsh Alaskan winters, these creatures can grow to gigantic proportions. Teddy, standing at a colossal height of 14 feet, underscores this fact.
Teddy’s Origin
Teddy was not always a permanent fixture at the airport. His story began in Southwest Alaska in 1994. He was felled by a Kodiak resident during the fall bear hunting season. This part of the state is a region well-known for its bear population and offers some of the most challenging bear hunts in the world.
The Journey to the Airport
Post its hunt, Teddy was taken to Wasilla, where he became a labor of love for taxidermist Dave Cotton. The process of creating a full-body mount of this magnitude was no small task. For four straight months, Cotton worked tirelessly to preserve and present Teddy as a tour-de-force of nature. He paid particular attention to Teddy’s daunting yet awe-inspiring stance, which captures the essence of the Alaskan brown bear.
Arrival at Anchorage Airport
It wasn’t until 1995 that Teddy took his final place at the airport, becoming an immediate hit amongst both domestic and international travelers. His prime location, right in the international arrivals terminal, has made him a frequently photographed feature in Alaska’s bustling hub.
Symbol of Alaskan Wilderness
Teddy is no ordinary bear mount. He symbolizes the rugged wildness and breathtaking beauty that Alaska offers. Every year, millions of tourists pass through Anchorage’s airport, and Teddy serves as a stark reminder of the mystique that awaits them outside the airport walls. Perhaps he is also a symbol of the respect and reverence Alaskans have for their local wildlife and wilderness.
What Does Teddy Mean to Locals?
For locals, the 14-foot-tall bear at the airport is a familiar sight, a welcoming friend. To many, his presence is akin to a friendly nod acknowledging they are home. He stands as a constant, unchanging part of life at the airport, even as the rest of the airport regularly undergoes changes and updates.
What Teddy Means to Travelers?
For travelers, Teddy often represents their first real encounter with Alaskan wildlife. His size and stance inspire awe and respect – emotions often associated with Alaska itself. Many regard him as a memorable part of their trip and fondly recall their encounter with Teddy long after they’ve left Alaska’s shores. If you’re lucky, you might even see him wearing a festive hat during the holiday seasons.
Drop by Teddy on Your Visit
When you find yourself passing through Anchorage’s Ted Stevens International Airport, remember to look out for the impressive 14-foot bear on display. Teddy stands tall, ready to greet you with his imposing yet intriguing presence, acting as an embodiment of the Alaskan spirit. Whether you are just starting your journey in Alaska or bidding it farewell, stopping by Teddy’s display will surely make your trip all the more memorable.