The black bear likes to hang out between rocks. Image: USDA Forest Service

Like the patient Paul , a male black bear ( Ursus americanus ) named Nugget would rather hang back alone than jump right into the salmon fest. For his solo tendencies, the team at Tongass National Forest in southeastern Alaska have awarded Nugget the 2026 Introvert Award.

“For much of the season, Nugget could be seen wedged between rocks by lower falls,” the U.S. Forest Service team writes . “If you saw a furry, black head with glassy eyes poking out of a crack—that’s Nugget! You could also find him perched on a rock waiting for his turn to fish in the lower falls hierarchy; afraid to assert his dominance in the crowd.”

Nugget was first spotted in the area only two years ago, and is beloved for his small size. He has a reddish coat that shifts to black later in the season.…