As you know, the cubs had their introduction to chestnuts a few days ago.  Now they have also been introduced to acorns, which are the most important fall food for bears and other wildlife since the disappearance of the chestnut trees more than a century ago.  Once again the little bears showed that they are equipped with the innate knowledge that acorns are good to eat.  After Curator Coy threw the acorns into the Wild Enclosure, the cubs sought them out and ate with relish.  Here they are, enjoying their first taste of acorns.

Finnegan found some acorns.

Finn foraged to find more acorns.

Andy caught the scent of acorns and came out of the underbrush.

Andy found acorns and knew just what to do.

Andy continued to forage for more acorns.

Eliza came out to forage for the acorns, too.

There will be more acorns on the cubs’ menu in the days to come.  They need to eat these important hard mast nuts that are full of protein and fat.  Much of the weight gain by bears leading up to denning in winter comes from eating large amounts of acorns.  It appears that the acorn crop is much better this year than last – a good thing for bears and for other wildlife, as well.