We promised photos of the other two “newbies” at ABR, #342 (Stout) and #343 (Porter) who are out in Wild Enclosure #1. The enclosure had been prepared for their arrival by the installation of a new form of enrichment – a Springy Tub! You’ll see this device in the photos, and note that it provoked interest, curiosity, and the cubs’ investigative instincts.
First, the cubs were surprised by a “peanut shower,” something new. They had never been in a peanut shower before! Note the “Not a drinking tub” on the left.At night, the “Not a drinking tub” came under closer inspection. As you can see, it has a new name, too.One of the cubs decided to pull it over, a very cub-like decision. He thought he knew what the result would be.But – surprise! It wouldn’t tip as he expected! Now what?Even more surprising – it jumped away from him, puzzling the cub.Showing that bear cubs are very smart, he moved to another side, thinking he’d surely be able to tip it this way.What? It jumped away again, and didn’t spill its contents!
We don’t know if he or his brother will figure out the puzzle of the Springy Tub, or not, but the next morning saw them foraging together. They stay pretty close together, most of the time.
The two sibling cubs forage in the same area.They sleep together at the base of a tree, as they might do in the wild, creating a daybed for themselves.
All three of the latest additions to the ABR Class of 2021 are making good progress toward their eventual release back into the wild. Watch this space.
