RC and her cubsWe got a call that bears were at one of the community feeding stations. Then we were called to another. By the time we were done, we’d seen RC and her 3 cubs, Jewel and her 3 cubs, Samantha and her 2 cubs plus a surprise—Aster. We also found that 14-year-old Donna and Guy would share food nose to nose. Is that a sign they’ve mated?
DonnaAster’s wound is still draining, and her left front leg is still a problem. She puts no weight on it when she sits but will walk on it, favoring it a little. We wonder if she can climb. She let Lynn feel the draining exit wound on her chest. The hole is still open. The pus has no bad smell. She’s doing okay but probably maimed for life. She will turn 4 this winter and likely have cubs. We hope to learn how she and they do.
Other bears seen include Cole, Oliana, Big Harry, Ty, Pete, Bow, etc.
Course participants are another great group of likeminded Lily Fans getting together to share the thrill of watching bears close-up and understanding them a little better. Educational displays of body language and vocalizations from mothers, cubs, and others didn’t disappoint. Can’t wait for tomorrow.
AsterMeanwhile, we’re thankful for the many people willing to walk the bear trails to map them and observe reactions of bears. There is no doubt the data will be useful. We’re looking at your emails and figuring out a schedule for good coverage. We soon want to let the local game warden and bear hunting guide know our plans so they know what we are doing and any hunters who choose to hunt around the community will be expecting to see us. We’ll be the ones wearing orange. Most hikers on Labor Day and through September are unaware that it is bear season and are wearing normal clothing with no problems.
Thank you for all you do.
—Lynn Rogers, Biologist, Wildlife Research Institute and North American Bear Center
All photos taken today unless otherwise noted.