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Science & Nature • Animal/Mammal

Kodiak bear

The Kodiak bear is a subspecies of brown bear (*Ursus arctos middendorffi*) found only on the islands of the Kodiak Archipelago in southwest Alaska.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Kodiak bear is a subspecies of brown bear (Ursus arctos middendorffi) found only on the islands of the Kodiak Archipelago in southwest Alaska. It is among the largest bears alive today, with a population estimated at about 3,500 animals. The subspecies has been isolated for roughly 12,000 years.

Taxonomy and naming

The Kodiak bear is generally classified as a subspecies of brown bear, Ursus arctos middendorffi. It is also called the Kodiak brown bear or Alaskan brown bear.

Range and habitat

This bear occurs only on islands in the Kodiak Archipelago off the coast of Alaska, including Kodiak, Afognak, and nearby islands. Its long isolation from mainland bears has shaped its distinct population.

Size and diet

Kodiak bears are exceptionally large, with adult males reaching very high body weights and large body sizes. They are omnivores and eat a varied diet that can include berries, grasses, salmon, and other animals.

Conservation and population

The Kodiak bear population is estimated at roughly 3,500 individuals and is generally considered stable. The IUCN does not list it separately from the brown bear, which is classed as Least Concern.

Key facts

  • Lives exclusively on the islands of the Kodiak Archipelago in southwest Alaska.
  • Is a unique subspecies of the brown bear.
  • Has been isolated from other bears for about 12,000 years.
  • Is among the largest bears and land carnivores alive today.
  • Population estimates are around 3,500 animals.
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Canadian context

Kodiak bears are of interest to Canadian readers because they are one of North America’s largest native bears and are often discussed alongside other Canadian and Alaskan brown bear populations.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Kodiak bear?
A Kodiak bear is a subspecies of brown bear native to the Kodiak Archipelago in Alaska.
Where do Kodiak bears live?
They live only on the islands of the Kodiak Archipelago in southwest Alaska.
How big can a Kodiak bear get?
They can reach about 720 kg (1,600 lb), making them among the largest bears alive today.
How many Kodiak bears are there?
Researchers estimate the population at about 3,500 animals.
Are Kodiak bears grizzly bears?
They are usually classified as brown bears, and some authorities and sources treat them as part of the broader grizzly/brown bear complex.
What do Kodiak bears eat?
They are omnivores and eat a mix of plants and animals, including berries and salmon.

References

  1. Alaska Department of Fish and Game — https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=brownbear.trivia
    Supports: Exclusive range in the Kodiak Archipelago; isolation for about 12,000 years; subspecies classification.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/Kodiak-bear
    Supports: Scientific classification, range, size, and population estimate.
  3. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kodiak_bear
    Supports: Common names, range, and taxonomic treatment as a brown bear subspecies.