Surprise trip to Brooks Camp

I got to make a quick day trip back out to Brooks Camp and to take Craig with me.  We left in the morning when the air was cool and crisp.  35 degrees F to be exact.  We were bundled up for the boat ride out.  It was pretty foggy on the way out there but just before we got there the fog burned away and the mountains that surrounding Brooks Camp were all a glow with new fallen snow.  It was beautiful.  there on the beach to greet us was 402 and her spring cub.  The cub was all fluffy and chubby.  She should make it through the winter.  They however were not that excited about our arrival and laid down in front of the boat and fell asleep.  We had to wait almost an hour for 402 to wake up so we could get off the boat.

Craig and I did what I had to accomplish then went to the lower platform to wait for the rest of the crew to finish their projects.  I was surprised as there were not as many bears as there was when I left a week ago.  I guess they have started to make their way up the mountains to start digging this years dens.  Brown bear never use the same den but always den in the same areas.  After an hour of watching what few bears there were I got a call on the radio to meet at the boat.  We were the first to arrive so we climbed on board and then the parade started.  Tundra walked by and looked at us as she passed.  A few minutes later 284 walked up, right up to the boat and looked at us as if saying see you next year if you it through the winter.  Then she marched off down the beach only to meet 402 and cub coming our direction.  284 played a little game of chicken with the sow then ran off to a safe direction.  402 went into the water and did a number of graceful dives.  As graceful has a 400 pound bear can do.  One dive was right next to the boat.  I think she wanted to make sure we would remember her.  The cub was at the front of the boat putting on a show of her own.  Then Lurch appeared down the beach and cleared everyone out.  All my favorite bears had come and said goodbye.  I am not sure when I will be back to Brooks Camp but I a sure anxious for that day to be here.  It was a great summer with the bears.