Yesterday we told the story of our little “cow cub,” Ferdinand. Today we’ll reminisce about out other Kentucky boy, Harlan Bear, who was also returned to KY for release on January 7th.
A wide-eyed little Harlan Bear arrived at ABR in late June, at the age of 5 months, weighing 13 pounds. The exam at UTCVM revealed that he was anemic, possibly due to a tick infestation.It wasn’t long before he was released into Wild Enclosure #1.Harlan really liked the Cubby Pool, and chewing on the safety logHe practiced his flutter kick in the pool and spent a lot of time there.Luckily, his fur was drip dry, because it was often wet.Harlan made friends with Sassafras Bear.He grew and became a handsome young bear.Three young bears – it appeared that Harlan was giving a lesson on saplings (and their murdalization, no doubt).Harlan posed with an apple in October. He had really grown!What a big boy! Ready for release!Big Harlan Bear weighed 94 pounds!All the important measurements were taken for the record.His vitals (blood pressure, temperature, and heart rate) were monitored.Curator Tom takes Harlan’s footprint. Then Harlan was ready to join Ferdinand for their ride home.
The two Kentucky boys were ready to go. We hope that they have long and happy lives in the wilds of Kentucky. When the time comes, we hope they father many cubs of their own.
