Because many of us had not yet seen a bear or wolf within the park parameters, a field trip was arranged to visit the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center near the west entrance of Yellowstone.
Initially filled with emotions of gladness and accomplishment, we were admitted into the center only to encounter sensations of grief and heartache. It became very clear that each animal contained inside our once anticipated destination was suffering from chronic depression.
One might argue that any wild animal in captivity desires freedom and as a result, experiences periods of sadness. While this may be true, most confined wild animals do not have pristine views open to a National Park as do the poor mammals pictured below.
Having such surroundings would be torture enough, but it is likely that the bear's uncaged comrades come by at night to further taunt them when the center's volunteers are not watching.
Spirit, gazing into the distance as he longs for a friend. This photograph was taken shortly after he had completed cuddling a pine branch for a solid 30 minutes - a sure sign of desired companionship & depression.
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Taking a moment to discuss what we had learned inside the Discovery Center tipi.
Bear #101. Emotionally drained of all his strength, he leans on a nearby stone for support.
Sean, demonstrating the feelings of imprisonment.
Appreciating the close quarters of a wolf den.
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