My attention has been captured all winter by a live camera feed from the den of a hibernating female black bear. In February I watched her give birth to one female cub, and have been fascinated with the care she lavishes on that cub and the rapid growth of the baby. The biologists in charge of this study have also installed a microphone, so all the vocalizations of both mother and cub accompany the live picture. This project has provided an unprecedented window into the life of a wild animal with surprises daily.

Lily, the mother bear, has her own page on Facebook with over 85,000 fans. These avid “Lily watchers” admit to rearranging their lives in order to watch every detail of their favorite bear. At first there was simply a lot of sleeping and breathing, but now as the cub’s eyes are open and she can stand, observers feel they have a ringside seat into the world of bears. The scientists involved say they are learning right along with the fans, as both mother and cub continue to amaze them.

This is the address to access the cam from your computer: http://www.wildearth.tv/static/wildear th/channels/we_bear_den.html

This week the California Fish and Game Department is seeking input about its intention to expand black bear trophy hunting in our state. Every year 1,700 bears are pursued and attacked by packs of trained hunting hounds and then shot where they have been cornered. The dogs are equipped with radio collars, allowing the hunters to track them directly to the bear. Frankly, why this is a “sport” mystifies me.

Along with the inhumane aspect of bear hunting, there is also a financial impact on this county.

Tell the California DFG not to increase these problems. The deadline for input is March 13. Visit the web cam and see what black bears are like close up. Then tell the state you don’t want any more persecution of these animals.

Submit written comments via e-mail to fgc@fgc.ca.gov, via fax to (916) 653-5040, or via mail to California Fish and Game Commission, 1416 Ninth Street, Room 1320, Sacramento, CA 95814.

Pat Stacy