Comments from Recent Participants
"After following Dr. Rogers and the Ely black bears since 2010, we decided to attend the bear study course this summer. The amazing experience exceeded our expectations. The volunteer staff was superb-Judy provided spot-on organization, Andrea provided scrumptious meals, Mike provided bear expertise, and Kevin provided enthusiasm.
Dr. Rogers gave us his wisdom, his vast knowledge and his love for the black bears. It was an honor to be in his presence and to hear his lectures concerning his life’s work.
The highlight, of course, was feeding and observing the bears. We learned how gentle they are; we were entertained by their antics. We hope to attend a course next year."
Patsy and Barry - GA 2025
"I came to the course with a fear of bears after my encounters in the wild with them, where we both scared each other! By then end of the first day of the Bear Course, I had completely overcome my phobia and learned how to enjoy the company of bears. Now when I hike, I’m looking for bear tracks and following them, instead of changing direction. Thank you for a wonderful experience. I hope to come back again."
Katie - NM 2025
"I've done the Bear Study several times and they are always different. It's an experience like no other. Crawling into dens and watching the biggest bear eat with a chipmunk sitting on it's paw unmolested. I hope to be there again and again."
Marcia - OH 2025
"The bear field study course was the most incredible experience of my life. It was beyond my wildest expectations. I never imagined I'd get to interact with bears in this way; I feel truly privileged. No-where else in the world offers an experience like this. The course does challenge stereotypes - it's informative and gives a broad understanding of bear behaviour, habitat and wider ecology, and helps people and bears to coexist (which is what everyone involved in this wants)."
Helyn - UK 2025
"When walking to the house after having parked our cars at the beginning of bear camp we all huddled close to the staff, eyes nervously peeled for a bear in case one charged at us. At the end of an amazing experience, I walked up the same road alone to get my car, all the way hoping to see a bear on the road and fully confident it would avoid me and was just there to bid me farewell and thank me for the hazel nuts I was so fortunate to share. Thank you all for all you do for the bears and hope your project continues in perpetuity."
Pam - IL 2025
"A mind-expanding experience. Everything I thought I knew about black bears was completely incorrect. Working directly with the research team and Dr. Rogers was an amazing opportunity. The program draws like-minded thinkers who are looking to make a positive impact. I came away hopeful and energized."
Daniel - WI 2025
"The Black Bear Field Course is a life-changing experience, for anyone, but especially those with a fear of bears. You are able to learn their true nature (which is very different from what you were taught), from the bears themselves and from the lectures given by Dr. Lynn Rogers. I keep returning year after year because it is such a unique and amazing experience."
Laurie - CT 2025
"This unique course is an opportunity to experience what peaceful coexistence with bears really means. With ample opportunity to enrich learning sessions with close up observation of bears in the Northwoods—this bear study is an incredible chance to see bears in all phases of life… older, battle-scarred males, playful juveniles, patient mothers and curious cubs. You’ll witness natural behaviours, vocalizations, feeding, and interactions between bears, all enriched by connecting with experts and like-minded people. Lots of opportunity to spot other wildlife as well, and if you're lucky a bald eagle might swoop by. An incredible experience—don't be surprised if you want to go back as soon as you leave!"
Barb - Canada 2025
"Magical, immersive experience!
The Bear Field Study course offered the very rare opportunity to see wild black bears up close, observe their natural behaviors and learn about Dr. Rogers' decades of ground-breaking research at the WRI. The small group size allowed for enriching conversations with both the other participants and the staff of dedicated volunteers. The Northwoods - simply beautiful, accommodations - very comfortable and Andrea's meals - delicious. Our supervised daily interactions with the bears made this a trip of a lifetime! I also wanted to see my first loon in the wild and Dr. Rogers delivered! Thank you to Dr. Rogers, Judy, Mike, Kevin and Andrea for sharing your expertise, generosity and your love of these amazing animals. I am proud to now be a part of the WRI "family"."
Carol - VA 2025
"My husband and I attended our first Bear Study course in 2024. It was one of the most amazing experiences of my life.
We enjoyed ourselves so much, we decided to return this summer. The people who conduct the program were as welcoming and friendly as I remembered. The food was great, the surroundings were homey, and the other participants became new friends.
The pontoon boat ride was fun, and we were given the opportunity to crawl into an old den during a hike, plus interact with lots of bears.
I highly recommend this course to anyone wanting to learn about wildlife in the Northwoods. It is a unique and unforgettable experience."
Janet - TN 2025