Bud is a Generous Tipper! - Appalachian Bear Rescue

It’s a good thing that winter (and hibernation) is near. We can’t imagine how difficult it would be to continue to confine a yearling bear like Bud at any other time of year. But since his metabolism is slowing down so much to get ready for a long sleep, he seems to be OK with eating and sleeping.

Bud is relaxed as he sleeps on his bed in the Hartley House. with his ball nearby.

He wakes up and munches for a while. He’s eating as much as he can.

Soon he goes back to sleep. We can see the generous “tips” he leaves for the curators.

Curator Coy collects the tips. The cedar chips act like kitty litter, absorbing liquid, deodorizing, and keeping the area clean. In addition, the chips are flammable.

Why does the flammability matter, you ask?

ABR received this piece of equipment a few months ago. It was customized for us by Wes the Welder and makes a perfect incinerator for solid waste!

The incinerator in action – it works very well!

Waste management is a concern at ABR. When new bears or cubs are admitted, they often have parasites. Bears in the Wild Enclosures have been dewormed and treated for parasites, so of course the curators want to keep them safe from transmission of anything that might be brought in by a new bear. This is a good solution, and it burns so hot that there is little to no odor!

(If you missed the video, posted earlier, of Lemon Drop Bear, be sure to go back and see it!)