Temperatures are beginning to rise across metro Vancouver, leading to Grouse Mountain’s residential bears awakening from hibernation.
Earlier this morning, Grouse Mountain’s two resident Grizzly bears, Grinder and Coola, excitedly emerged from hibernation at the Peak of Vancouver.
The special spring occasion concludes the bears’ 17th hibernation period which is tied for the longest since their arrival at the Grouse Mountain Refuge for Endangered Wildlife.
“We’re pleased to welcome Grinder and Coola out of hibernation and watch them playfully explore their habitat”, said Dr. Ken Macquisten, Refuge Director and Veterinarian. “Hibernation through the winter is a natural way for Grizzlies to conserve energy during a time of low food availability. The annual awakening of the massive male Grizzlies signals the onset of spring and summer adventures and we welcome all guests to visit these magnificent animals at the Grouse Mountain Refuge for Endangered Wildlife.”
During their 153-day winter dormancy, staff once again monitored Grinder and Coola via an infrared camera placed in their hibernation den and the live feed was shared with the public on the Grouse Mountain website.
Regarded as two of the most popular residents at the Peak of Vancouver, the now 17 year old Grizzly bears Grinder and Coola originally came to Grouse Mountain’s Refuge for Endangered Wildlife in 2001 when they were rescued after being orphaned during separate incidents in Bella Coola and Invermere.
