As we knew would happen, the cub releases have begun. The first two cubs to be released were the last to arrive, in October. Stout and Porter Bear are brothers who were rescued after their mother was killed when trying to climb an unstable pine tree that gave way, causing her to fall to her death. The cubs, then 8 and one-half months old, had tried to climb down to her when they were spotted and rescued.
They were healthy and of good size for their age. They were released into a Wild Enclosure of their own.The two cubs chose to sleep in daybeds, often together.They grew and chubbified at ABRDuring their three months with us, they became strong, healthy bears.They loved to wrestle, just like most other cubs. It was time to go.Stout went to the staging area first.The wildlife officers and a team of vets from UT assisted the curators.Stout has a healthy mouth and good teeth.The exam was thorough.As is usual, Stout’s eyes were covered so they wouldn’t dry out. Immobilized bears can’t blink.Stout has a big paw!His blood pressure was taken.Exam completed, Stout is loaded into a transport carrier.Porter Bear was next.Porter is a handsome young bear.Like his brother, Porter has healthy teeth.The exam process is full of indignities.Each of the cubs had an ultrasound performed by the vets.Porter was loaded into another transport carrier.Porter’s nose indicated that he was awake. Bears must be awake before they actually leave ABR.Stout Bear was the first off of the truck. The door was opened. . .. . . and off he goes into the woods.Porter’s carrier was opened next.Porter wasted no time in taking off. Free at last, and back where he belongs!
We are very glad that these two cubs are back home in the national park, where they belong. We hope they both have healthy and happy lives and that they stay far away from humans! By the way, when they came to us three months ago, both of them weighed in the mid-60-pound range. At release, Porter weighs 134 pounds, and Stout weighs almost 138 pounds! They have a good start for their lives in the wild.
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