[Cdt-l] Grizzly Bear Research

[Jim Wolf]

Government agencies are studying bear populations and distribution 
between Glacier and Yellowstone. One technique being used is to attract 
bears to dead trees that have been surrounded by a few strands of barbed 
wire. When a bear elects to rub its back against the tree, it will leave 
hairs that can be analyzed to determine its unique DNA profile. The area 
of active research extends well south of Lincoln -- at least as far as 
Bison Mountain.

For pictures of bear rubs, go to 
http://nrmsc.usgs.gov/research/KendallRemoteCamera.htm

Apparently some of the research trees can be found along the CDT. Watch 
for them -- and if you have any coordinates, please pass them along.

Jim Wolf