Bear News from Sharon.
Bear News – May 1, 2018
TedThis past week we remember, with deep sadness, the passing of Honey bear. It has been two years since her passing but seems more like yesterday. She will be in my heart forever. Her eyes spoke volumes and her sweet smile inviting. Thank you Honey bear for teaching me respect, love, and how to earn trust.
The Mystic Lake NABC annual fundraiser was this past Saturday. I attended the event with Dr. Rogers, Donna Rogers, Scott and Cindy Edgett, Judy McClure and many avid bear heads. I would like to thank Sarah Rose and Dan Zirbes for a wonderful time. It was well organized, the food was delicious, and it was and so much fun. I wish all of you could have attended.
Ted had his first visit to the viewing area today. I know all of you have been anxious but I needed the snow to be gone for Ted's safety. The snow is almost gone!
On Saturday, we noticed Tasha sustained a minor injury to her right front paw/pad. I suspect she may have snagged it on a branch or stub coming down from a tree. Once we discovered that Tasha was favoring her paw, we moved Holly and Lucky to the bunker dens (there is no reason for them to be separated, they are getting along well). That is our protocol. We tried to get Tasha to one of other dens, but she had her own agenda, therefore, she is out alone in the big enclosure. On Monday we were able to get a good look at her paw and it is doing well and healing, she is putting weight on it at times.
Woods Lake with black ice
Questions from our bear fans:
Question: Are Ted's footpads in good condition?
Answer: Yes. They are ok, he's an older bear so his pads are not as smooth as Tasha or Holly’s.
Question: How many times a day are the bears being fed?
Answer: Last week they were receiving one meal per day. They were eating smaller meals but still got treats on Behind-the-Scenes tours. Starting May 1, the bears will have a small breakfast and dinner.
Thank you for your support and please keep the questions coming.
Sharon Herrell
Senior Bearkeeper
North American Bear Center
White-throated sparrowSharon sent the picture of Ted making his first walk to the viewing area today. Ted is a gem of a bear.
Out the window here at the Wildlife Research Institute, I saw my first white-throated sparrows of the year. Across Woods Lake, just a day after the picture of darkening ice on April 29, the ice turned black and melting progressed around the beaver lodge.
Thank you for all you do.
Lynn Rogers, Biologist, Wildlife Research Institute and North American Bear Center