A dark and rainy day at the Research Center - June 19, 2012
Donna's wound - June 18, 2012
It was a dark day of thunderstorms in the study area. We examined photos of Donna’s wound but couldn’t determine for sure if it was a bite. We’re hoping to see Donna again soon to inspect the wound more closely. June seems to still be calmly foraging in Donna’s territory with no sense of urgency.
Honey - June 19, 2012At the Bear Center, Honey is growing new dark fur on her face but still has old, long, sun-bleached winter fur and underfur on the rest of her body. During a period of light rain, Honey showed us how bears get scent through their nose and mouth. She is opening her mouth to draw air past the vomeronasal organ on the roof of her mouth.
Honey scents the air - June 19, 2012The study bears with GPS units sent fewer signals today because of the rain. When the fabric cases that hold the units get wet, it’s harder for signals to get to and from the satellites and then back to our computers. It’s always interesting to see where the bears ‘appear’ after a few hours of no transmissions.
Donna - June 18, 2012We spent the day divided between data and paperwork at the Research Center and visiting the Bear Center to measure where the new building will sit. Your donations to GiveMN and the thermometer have boosted the building fund to nearly $526,000 with $374,000 to go. The difference the Hope Education Building will make for bears is what we are all about.
Thank you for all you do.
—Lynn Rogers and Sue Mansfield, Biologists, Wildlife Research Institute and North American Bear Center