Juliet We believe she has 3 as she did in 2012 (Sam, Sophie, and Sybil), 2010 (Sharon, Shirley, and A Boy Named Sue), and 2008 (David, Tia, and Mimi). Her first litter, in 2006, was two (Luke and Skywalker), as is common for a first litter. Her total is 5 males and 6 females so far. Den-watchers will be on the lookout for the sexes of the latest cubs.
Our first cub sighting!Juliet’s Den Cam has had some technical problems we hope to solve over the weekend. The high-tech knowledge needed for what we’re trying to do is huge. Additional experts are stepping forward and becoming part of the team. Although the broadcast system was down at the time of the birth, the camera itself was recording the event for science. Once we are able to download the complete set of archives we will know more about Juliet’s labor and delivery. This sound clip made us think there are 3 voices. See if you agree.
Ted's new strawThe court order, which allows us to maintain the radio-collars on the research bears, prohibits us from broadcasting live den cam footage. We had hoped to be able to post highlight videos of den cam footage, but our proposal to do so has been denied. We are currently working on a method of providing video clips to schools, home-schools, colleges, etc. Educators are encouraged to fill out the online form at http://www.bearstudy.org/website/educator-signup.html to facilitate the process.
Honey looks up as new straw arrivesThe Bear Center staff took a hint from Holly today. We’ve never seen a bear burrow into bedding like Holly does. Would Ted and Honey do that, too, if they had more straw? The staff gave each an additional half bale of straw. If they rake it in and make it part of their beds, we’ll give more. Lucky already has a lot of straw.
Our 2014 Black Bear Field Study courses are filling fast! Learn more at http://www.bearstudy.org/website/field-study-courses.html.
Thank you for all you do.
—Lynn Rogers and Sue Mansfield, Biologists, Wildlife Research Institute and North American Bear Center