Critter Alley

Critter Alley

Monday, January 25, 2010

Black Bear Blues



Lily. Image credit North American Bear Center

Among the latest video crazes to hit the internet is the 24/7 recording of a female black bear called Lily, as she waits out winter in her den. It's her time to rest, living off the fat she's stored after a major summer/fall eating binge. Lily had to prepare for what's to come because black bears give birth during hibernation. And this well-watched Mama has entertained the world by doing just that.

Check out the webcam.

I'm sure the camera is catching information which will lead to a new understanding of black beardom. But I can't help feeling sorry for Lily during the process. Think about it.

Millions of viewers watched her every move as she went into labor. After delivering a single cub, the high-fives resounded. Never mind the tortuous birthing process which did not include one drop of anesthesia. Lily wasn't happy. It's been rumored that while giving birth she kept growling through clenched teeth, "He'd better not come near me again or so help me I'll...!". Ah-hem. You get the picture.

Meanwhile, viewers continue to watch while Lily nurses, cleans and otherwise cares for her naked, helpless newborn through numerous sleepless nights. No one brings her a midnight snack. No cubsitter pops into her by-now-very-untidy den to help out. There's no getaway night out with the girls. Nothing. Nada. Zero. Zip. Lily's on her own and she certainly has her paws full.

Never mind what the experts discover. I've already learned something from Lily's ordeal. It's the reason park officials warn us to be extra careful around bears after hibernation.

Because nothing can be more dangerous than a post-partum Mama.

7 comments:

Unknown said...

You ended an a funny note and I thought that it was quite appropriate. I had actually forgotten about Lily and guess what, I'm hooked now. I love the little sounds too. They're so soothing. I'll be quiet as I watch so I don't upset mommy and cubs.
Twink!

Ann Summerville said...

A friend told me about this site last week and we have been watching. I missed the birth though. Although I know bears can be ferocious, don't you just want to just hug that sweet face?
Thanks for sharing.
Ann

Linda O'Connell said...

Pat, thanks for the feel good post. Loved your last sentence. I'm as hooked on this bear site as I was the eagle's nest last year.

Sketching with Dogs said...

That is so wonderful, I am facinated by bears.
WSPA have a program which rehomes abused bears in sanctuaries. It is such a worthwhile charity.
It is so wonderful to see a bear living free and happily.
Being a mother three times over she gets my vote of sympathy,LOL!
Lynne

An English Shepherd said...

Lovely post, They say I look a bit like a bear ;-)

I don't think she would give a cuddle like me :-)

Wizz

Life With Dogs said...

We had a visit from a big one a couple of years ago. Majestic creatures...

Anonymous said...

Thanks for the wonderful link to the webcam, Pat! I loved this fascinating insight into the life of the noble bear.