His opponent is larger, older, and won’t tolerate a rival. A second try, he scores a quick nibble. It is a game of patience and cunning, but a loss can result in death. Adult males will kill younger bears if it suits them.

 

The older male has had enough. He charges, pushing the adolescent further and further back. The young one admits defeat, and retreats to safe ground. He begins a new game, a waiting game. The older bear devours his meal, licking the carcass, cleaning up blubber.

 

When the adult male has had his fill[1], he wanders off, leaving the scraps for his opponent. The young one feeds on the remains. It wins a consolation prize[2] of sorts[3], a full belly. But it will be a long time before it is ready to compete again.