We had 5 bear cubs the summer of 2007 that we raised.  In total though this year was very busy as we had over 20 cubs come to us.  In the early spring we were able to foster out quite a few to wild sows which in the long is much better for the cubs.  We worked with White Pines Wildlife Rehab Center in Falls Creek, WI to take 9 of the cubs and raised them in their 2 acre enclosure.  Below are pictures of putting the cubs in the transfer cages and the actually release.

Mark used a blow dart to anesthetize each bear before getting into the cage.  Bears were carried by a stretcher to the transfer cages where they are placed on blankets and than the front of each cage is covered by a blanket to keep them further calm.  This photographer was allowed one quick close up picture of a rear paw to show that bears may have coarse fur, but actually have softer skin for the soles of their feet.

Once we came to the release site all the cages were carefully removed from the trailer and lined up together.  Current and former interns along with volunteers were told to keep behind the cages or a little off to the side as to make sure the cubs ran in the right direction of the forest.

Due to many donations and a large amount of help from volunteers, interns and staff we were able to complete our new bear enclosure in the fall of 2007.  Click here to see the start to finish pictures.