When we checked in two days earlier, the park warden asked if we had flashlights. He told us, "We've been having a lot of problems with bears in the dumpsters, so be careful if you go out at night." We noticed that the campsites had bear proof trash containers, but the big dumpsters by the visitor's center were just normal dumpsters. Why not have bear proof dumpsters? Most likely explanation is budget. But I digress.
The Whee and I scurried over to the bear trap, and heard huffing. YES! There was a bear in it! With a big nose. I assume everything attached to that nose was pretty big as well.
We walked around to the front and when we got within 4 feet he or she bruin began to growl, so we backed off. We figured the poor creature was stressed enough without us making it worse. I understand why game officials have to do this, but I feel sorry for the creatures upon whom we are impinging just to get a green space fix.
I'm not sure how it's more cost effective to catch and release those guys than to buy a different dumpster, but 'tis not mine to question the government. Well, actually, it's exactly mine to question those things, but that's a topic for a different blog.
I understand that the game warden would be transferring this unfortunate fellow to another part of the park not populated by humans. I wish for him lots of grubs and berries.
Happy Trails and don't bait the bears!
