How do bears notice flowers or buds high in a tree and know to eat them? Tasha climbed high in a tree that I’ll have to be there to identify but am guessing is a maple that has flowers, as red maples in the area have at this time. 
Herring gullShe tried every which way to reach out and grab a branch to bring it to her mouth. Finally, she figured a way to do it as a Lily Fan captured in this 6:53-minute video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CaGB8sHtvtk.
In building the enclosure, we tried to minimize cement and maximize woods and water. The main problem captive animals face is boredom and the captive psychoses that result. It’s what zookeepers try to avoid with enrichment sessions, 
Herring gullbut there is no better enrichment than the constant enrichment provided by mother nature with her changing seasons, foods, habitat and inhabitants. Fellow bears are part of that. With their minds occupied by challenges, they have more to think about than pacing or other repetitive activities common among captive animals. I’m on edge about Tasha falling when I see her contorting high in a tree, but I’m glad to see her active, exploring, and doing what wild bears are doing across the northwoods this time of year.
Out the window, it was fresh snow this morning. Gulls showed their flying skills, streaking past downwind or struggling the other way.
I don’t know what Eli does all day, but shortly after dark he shows up as I’m getting to expect. I’m always watching for Quill and the other bears.
Thank you for all you do.
Lynn Rogers, Biologist, Wildlife Research Institute and North American Bear Center