Brown Bears (Info, Pics and Videos)

[Tshokwane]

Credits to Deby Dixon - Wild World Photography.

The Courtship Continues

The courtship between Raspberry and "Ugly Guy," (if you will remember, I named him that earlier this year because his lower lip hangs weird, making him look like a bit of a goofball. Lip aside though, he is impressive and quite beautiful. Full of character.) continues. 

This was an unexpected time with these two bears, but one I desired. This area is a long ways from home and I've had other obligations and so not been able to be there when the bears were out. Well, yesterday, after my tour ended, I found myself locked out of the house. The contractor went to make a key and get supplies and I was out in the cold.  :) I was very tired and didn't feel great and so had planned to just park somewhere and sleep. 

Well, an unexpected encounter with 815, Mini Mom, and people running after her and standing 10 yards away as they followed her, got me stirred up and looking for phone service. I said nothing to anyone, except to try and get out of the jam that had both lanes blocked, despite good shoulder space. People thought I was nuts to want to leave. I thought they were nuts to be running towards a bear and standing that close. No photos, I just had to get out of the situation.

So, I made the call and kept driving. Found myself looking at Raspberry and her beau, a good distance away and never expected them to come close. But, they did. And, they stayed close. Another situation with people way too close to the bears and blocking traffic. No rangers and people stood there when the boar walked within 5' of them. Others took their children to within 20 or 30 yards. I just stayed in my car and got some shots. Not my business - plus, it is too frustrating. Well, I got some great, close shots of both bears, from the car window, proving that one doesn't need to put the lives of their children at risk. 

The boar did get upset at some people that were walking towards him, despite already too close, and went towards them. Then, he remembered his mission and headed towards Raspberry. 

No one was hurt and I had an incredible time watching the bears.

The park service really does need people manning these evening jams. I go through several every night, all with people blocking the road and way close. I often don't call, knowing that there is no one to respond. Someone is going to get hurt, a bear will get killed, and bear watching will end. So scary.

*This image is copyright of its original author

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