Paul and his new buddy didn’t spend as much time together today as a third yearling came into the mix for awhile and as Paul’s buddy decided to go cool off in the lake on this 85° day. But Paul and his buddy had a good romping play session that displayed the closeness they showed yesterday. The main thing seemed to be joy of being together with their ears in play position and their mouths open for gentle holding. Some of their togetherness looked almost loving. One picture shows Paul lying down inviting his buddy to come and engage him. Sometimes they look like they simply like hugging and closeness. I felt some of that from Ted when he’d simply grab me with his arms or mouth and hold me, as I want to write in the book.
Paul's buddy swimming
I also felt that from Gerry who had been raised in captivity for a critical month. When I introduced her to a foster mother, she accepted the mother and was part of the family, but we had a bond that began the moment I greeted her like a bear. When I walked with the wild family and sat on a log for a few moments to write notes, Gerry would climb into my lap just to be close—like pets and people do with each other. Gerry remembered that connection for as long as I knew her. Hugh Morton captured a moment of reuniting in this picture of her holding me close after a long absence.
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| Paul and his buddy playing | ||
Good memories.
On another note, now that Jewel and her yearlings have separated, Spanky came into the picture and was last seen following her scent trail. I hope we can see what develops.
Thank you for all you do,
Lynn Rogers, Biologist, Wildlife Research Institute and North American Bear Center