Original Blackheart photoWith the countdown to the July Fourth tourist peak, we are moving fast to show the beginnings of the Ecology Hall.
Yesterday, we got four of the outside pictures up (7x10 feet) before the volunteers had to leave. We’re putting together a group to put up the remaining 6 on Tuesday.
One of the faded pictures coming down was a favorite of mine. Being mostly black, the 8x12-foot picture we removed had resisted fading better than the others. It always brought back a good memory of Blackheart sitting on a log with little Sunshine on her left knee and little Solo snuggled against her right side almost hidden behind Solo’s arm. Good, trusting Blackheart let me lie down in front of her to capture a photo of her, seeming almost human in a way. It reminded me of reading to my kids long ago. I knew the picture was a little too complicated to be easily grasped from the highway (230 feet away), so we put a smaller version where it would be the most visible picture in the Viewing Area inside.
Faded photo taken downThe new picture outside is of Ted sitting in good light where the camera could capture his gentle eyes. We put it right next to the entryway where people will see it just before they enter and see Ted in person. It is a simple picture that can be immediately grasped by passing motorists.
Speaking of Ted, an intern took a cell phone video of Ted standing up and vigorously scent-marking a tree. If he is feeling his oats to that extent, and if he is Honey’s favorite, we can only guess what happens when no one is looking. We don’t really think anything, but we were surprised to see him acting like a teenager.
Four short videos give an idea of how exhibits are looking in the Ecology Hall
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yGucwBXyRlc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klBgZSF7uDw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hi0kv3XdiAA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMhksq3lYIE
Thank you for all you do.
Lynn Rogers, Biologist, Wildlife Research Institute and North American Bear Center