Jewel's cubBlack Bear Field Course participants said this last day was the best. For nearly two hours, we watched Jewel and her cubs as the cubs slept high in a white pine, climbed, followed Jewel, and foraged. A little female was glued to mom while her sister and brother slept.
Jewel's cubJewel repeatedly returned to the tree grunting, but the two sleepy cubs paid no attention. They would come down when they were ready. From Jewel’s swollen breasts, we believe she wanted to nurse them. When the two awoke, they all joined up and disappeared into the forest, probably to nurse.
Jewel's cub climbs downAt the Bear Center, meeting Ted close-up was a highlight, and seeing Lucky and Holly stretch and climb for food on their tray hanging from the cedar made cameras click. Lily Fans are arriving early for the Lilypad Picnic. Super!
UrsulaBack at the WRI, we saw Ursula during her brief visit. Her face is marked similar to Lily’s, but while Lily’s markings are light brown, Ursula’s are a deeper rich brown. Both bears have similar calm trusting personalities.
Good bears. Good conversation. Good memories.
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.