Baloo

“Baloo”

Every spring and early summer we watch for the dandelions as they start to go to seed, as this is a sure sign the bears will be coming down to the roadside for this high protein treat. It is often during this time we find grizzly bears scouring the ditches and nearby hillsides for these delectable plants that are a big part of their springtime diet before the berries appear. We watched this big old grizzly for some time as it traveled along the hillside, grazing on dandelions, and stopping to roll over rocks in search of bugs. He seemed to be totally oblivious to our being there, but we knew different. He was very much aware of our presence and would occasionally stop with a mouthful of bugs or dandelions and give us a look of acknowledgement and contentment.  His rotund size and lazy saunter often reminded me of the big ole bear Baloo in the Jungle Book, one of my favorite childhood books.                                       

 - Stan Masters

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