Aster Bear hunting begins tomorrow and we’re as prepared as we can be. Today, we made last-minute additions to the radio-collars—streamers, reflective plastic strips that stand up above their ears, and new batteries. The season runs until mid-October but most bears are taken before September 16.
JewelThis evening, we ran into a hunter on WRI property that wanted to know exactly where the property line was. Baits have been placed across the road from the WRI. We know some of our radio-collared bears are visiting baits—just like non-collared bears. We’re bracing for the days and weeks ahead—hoping hunters spare radio-collared bears, all of which are females and many of which are accompanied by cubs.
Thank you for all your words of support. You understand how difficult this time of year can be.
Ted eyes feederThe Bear Center staff is introducing new activities for Ted, Lucky, and Honey. We want Lucky to climb the new Lucky Tree so visitors can photograph him at eye level from the outdoor viewing balcony. Ted was the first to be interested, though, and he stood taller than we’ve ever seen him stand as he successfully reached the bird feeder. The picture and video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qbMEO_dK8kE&feature=youtu.be tell the story.
Thank you for all you do.
—Lynn Rogers and Sue Mansfield, Biologists, Wildlife Research Institute and North American Bear Center
All photos taken today unless otherwise noted.