The Alaskan Wilderness is one of the most controversial topics discussed in the United States today. There are many different opinions and regulations regarding certain topics affecting Alaska's natural landscape. One of these topics is brown bear hunting. Although these massive animals are currently at no risk of being wiped out by hunting, it is still a controversial and constantly debated issue. More than ninety-five percent of the United States' brown bears reside in Alaska. Brown bears are one of the most attractive attractions for visitors to Alaska. According to the Alaskan Outdoor Journal, there are locations throughout Alaska that are designated as brown bear viewing areas (Alaska Outdoor Journal, 2010). However, many of those who come to Alaska for the brown bear don't come simply to observe them. Instead, they come to hunt. These animals are constantly hunted for sport, and because they reproduce at a very low rate, this can potentially endanger the entire brown bear population. Overall, I believe brown bear hunting should remain legal. According to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, brown bears are found throughout Alaska, primarily in areas that allow them to hunt salmon seasonally (Alaska Fish & Game, 2010). This allows them to grow larger and live in higher concentrations than the grizzly bear. The traditional brown bear and the grizzly bear are actually both classified as brown bears, despite several differences in appearance. Brown bears are one of the most fascinating and powerful species in the Alaskan wilderness. Cubs are usually born in January or February, usually in groups of one to four (Alaska Fish & Game). An adult male brown bear can weigh 1,500 pounds and be over 10 feet tall (Alaska Fish & Game, 2010). Brown bears also have the ability to run at speeds up to 40 mph for short periods of time (Alaska Fish & Game). All of these unique features worry many people because it is legal to hunt them. Several groups are working to conserve the brown bear population, particularly in Alaska, such as the Northern Forum's Brown Bear Working Group (Fish & Wildlife Journal, 2010). The bear population in Alaska is thriving and is listed as least concern by the IUCN Red List (IUCN, 2010). Overall, the brown bear population is in no danger.