Bud Bear Keeps Busy Inside - Appalachian Bear Rescue

Even though being inside a building (in this case the Hartley House) is a very unnatural habitat for a black bear, our injured yearling, Bud, is managing to keep himself occupied. The curators are thankful! Bud Bear shows intelligence and problem-solving skills.

Let’s review how Bud ended up here ABR.

Starting before his rescue, shortly after his injury – here is Ranger Greg, waiting for the immobilization drug to take effect. Ranger Greg was an ABR Curator for a few months not long ago.

Bud had surgery at UTCVM to repair his broken leg. He had been hit by a car.

This radiograph was taken after the surgery. It shows the placement of the plates used to repair his broken bones. Bud will return to UTCVM in another couple of weeks, to be rechecked.

Bud’s teeth are not in great shape. They show the effects of eating an unnatural diet, including human food. When Bud returns to UT, his teeth will be checked.

Back to the Hartley House –

Bud is still trying to get his “furniture” placed right.

He doesn’t like this placement for his bed.

Maybe folding it over would make it better.

Bud is good at this. He is creative in problem solving.

Aha! He made his bed into a chair (that can be made into a bed).

Now he has a recliner, where he can recline and play with his Beary Sandwich.

Of course, if desired, he can also snooze on his bed! Good bear!

It is rather surprising (and very gratifying) that this yearling bear is staying so calm in such an unnatural setting. Perhaps his body senses that he needs the rest in order to heal. Whatever the reason, Bud is doing very well and we think this bodes well for his complete recovery. Stay tuned.