One of the first bears the Black Bear Field Course saw was Donna, who brings back good memories for me. She was part of the Dot and Donna duo who were Blackheart’s first litter back in 2000. 
DonnaI was just learning about touch, which turned out to be the universal language that helped me bridge the language gap and become more trusted by bears. As a result, Donna was willing to wear a collar for most of the 17 years she has peacefully coexisted with the humans in her territory. Today, I wanted a picture of her gentle face and eyes. She didn’t comply when I nicely asked her to look at the camera, so I made a soft cat noise that got her attention for a couple seconds. Then she was back to what she was doing and off to see what her cubs were up to.
ShadowAt lunch, one of the group said she especially wanted to see Shadow. It felt good to be among people who know the bears by name and know their special values. I put out the word. After supper, we got the call we wanted and hopped in the Van. Shadow is so shy despite her 30 years of experience with people. In the picture, she strikes me as timid.
I have to say thank you to the anonymous person who sent 78 pounds of hazelnuts for the bears.
Thank you for all you do.
Lynn Rogers, Biologist, Wildlife Research Institute and North American Bear Center