As promised, today we share the photos of the preparations for the release of Bumble B. Bear.  Bumble was an ABR resident from May 31st to September 11th, 2018.  He was ready to return to the wild!

There were several things that needed to be done to get ready.

Preparations were made for the workup at the staging area.

Paperwork was readied.

The TWRA officer prepared the immobilization drug.

Curators Coy and Tom and two TWRA officers carried Bumble to the staging area.

Then came the actual workup.

Bumble’s eyes were covered because a sedated bear can’t blink.

Bumble has a beautiful coat. Maybe because of all that time in the water?

Bumble weighed 109 pounds! He gained 86 pounds in 3 1/2 months.

He was measured from nose to nubbin.

Curator Coy measured Bumble’s head.

The transfer papers were signed.

Into the culvert trap he goes.

Coy checks that Bumble is awake before departure.

The truck drives away. Goodbye, Bumble B. Bear!

As always, it’s a happy/sad time when we say farewell to one of the bears that has been a big part of our lives.  But of course, release is the goal, so we are glad that Bumble made such great progress and is such a handsome and healthy bear.  He should do well in the wild, where he belongs.

Let’s look once more at the handsome boy –

Good luck, Bumble.  Stay safe and have a long and happy life as a wild bear!