If you recall, when it was time to release the “first wave” cubs a few days ago, two of them – Petal and Aster Bear – did not cooperate. On December 4th, they were given another chance, and this time Petal did go back to the wild for her second chance. Aster remained in a tree, so she will have to be released later. Today we have photos of Petal, early in her stay at ABR and the workup for her release.
Here is how Petal looked back in July, when she arrived at ABR. She was about the size of our current “second wave” cubs at that time.
Petal was just 6 months old.
Petal’s “portrait” in July.
Next, we see Petal with her brother Peanut in October. They had grown! Peanut was one of the cubs who was released the other day.
Petal and Peanut in October.
Now we will see what happened on Petal’s release day. We had a very distinguished guest that day – Cassius Cash, the Superintendent of Great Smoky Mountains National Park observed and participated in the workup procedure. First, Curator Coy took him on a tour of the Cub Nursery.
Curator Coy shows Superintendent Cash the Cub Nursery.
Petal Bear is carried up to the staging area. The Superintendent lends a hand.
Petal Bear being carried to staging area.
Petal is weighed – she weighs 92.5 pounds! One pound more than her brother Peanut weighed.
Petal weighs 92.5 pounds.
Superintendent Cash puts drops in Petal’s eyes.
He looks proud to play a part in Petal’s release.
Various checks are performed on Petal.
Petal’s teeth and gums are healthy.
She has big paws and claws.
Curator Coy puts the GPS collar on Petal.
Petal Bear is carried to the truck for transport.
Petal is loaded into the transport carrier.
David Whitehead, TWRA, closes the transport carrier.
Petal Bear leaves ABR for her wild home. She was released near where her brother Peanut was released a few days ago. It is quite possible that they will be reunited, but if not, each of them will be living the solitary life of bears in the wild. Goodbye Petal Bear! We hope you have a long and happy life in the wild.