There is a world somewhere between reality and fiction. Although ignored by many, it is very real and so are those living in it. This forum is about the natural world. Here, wild animals will be heard and respected. The forum offers a glimpse into an unknown world as well as a room with a view on the present and the future. Anyone able to speak on behalf of those living in the emerald forest and the deep blue sea is invited to join.
11-23-2016, 07:50 PM( This post was last modified: 11-23-2016, 08:03 PM by brotherbear )
The Grizzly, Our Greatest Wild Animal by Enos Mills.
In the grizzly bear we have the leading animal of North America, and one who might well be put at the head of the wild life of the earth. He has brain and brawn. He is self-contained and is prepared for anything. He makes an impressive appearance. He looks capable. He is bulk, agility, strength, endurance, repose, courage, enthusiasm, and curiosity. He is a master fighter if forced to defend himself.
But, a century ago, fifty years ago, or today, one could ramble the grizzly's territory in safety - unless attempting to kill a grizzly. The grizzly objects to being killed. If he is surprised or crowded so that he sees no escape, if the cubs are in danger or the mother thinks they are, or if the bear is wounded, there will be a fight or a retreat; and the grizzly will not be the one retreating. Almost every animal - wild or domestic - will fight if cornered or if he thinks himself cornered.
Before the days of the repeating rifle the grizzly boldly wandered over his domain as absolute master; there was nothing for him to fear; not an aggressive foe existed. But, being ever curious, he hastened to examine whatever interested him.
But is the grizzly ferocious? All the firsthand evidence I can find says he is not. Speaking from years of experience with him my answer is emphatically, "No!" Nearly every one whom a grizzly has killed went out with the special intention of killing a grizzly. The majority of people who hold the opinion that he is not ferocious are those who studied him without attempting to kill him; while the majority who say that he is ferocious are those who have killed or attempted to kill him.