We haven't just been busy here. This month staff members have been representing the Center and the animals across the region. Appearances and programs at the Nature Conservancy's Flat Ranch in Idaho, the Big Sky Farmer's Market, a gathering of more than 80 Wildlife Conservation Society members and guests in Ennis, and the Montana Folk Festival in Butte have kept us on the road and out of trouble. We've had a great time meeting new people and greeting some long-time friends of the Center.

Construction on the bear diet kitchen has been humming along. The benches in the amphitheater are almost ready for some very comfortable sitting, and we have new mulch in the habitats and the landscaped areas around the Center from recycled trees. Yes, even trees can be recycled. The Gift Shop and Admissions crew can't seem to slow down either, between putting out new merchandise, answering questions and helping visitors, and greeting all the folks and families coming and going. We love this time of year, and hope you'll come visit soon and see the action.

Remember if you have any questions, or just want to know more about any aspect of the Center, you can always give us a call at 406.646.7001, reply to this newsletter, or email

The wolves are fishing again! This week we received another shipment of live fish, and the animals are taking full advantage of what this means. They benefit not only from the nutritional value of fresh fish, but from the hunting and the catching! The bears, birds, and of course the wolves all partake when we receive these generous donations.

As you probably know, the birds-of-prey at the GWDC are all non-releasable because of some sort of injury or circumstance that leaves them unable to survive in the wild. Their stories vary, but one thing is the same: they are healthy and thriving in their environment. Whether they display neurological tics or pupils that are different sizes, the birds are well cared for and at home in their habitats. They are fun to watch, and they definitely have personalities! One of the eagles frequently engages with the animal keepers, and the American Kestrel carries on long conversations with the education staff. Come get to know the individuals here at the Center.

The bears are beating the heat with ice treats and lots of splashing in the pond. ABCFox Montana News just did a story on the animals at the Center, and how bears and wolves stay cool on hot days. You can view it or read about it here. After months of enticing 101 to play with him finally proved successful, young Roosevelt continues to spend time with 31-year-old Sow 101. They have been spotted foraging and eating together in the outdoor habitat, which is notable for her. It's heart-warming to watch this relationship develop.

 

If you're interested in visiting the GWDC with your family or with your students, or if you'd like to sponsor a Teaching Trunk or outreach program, let us know. One of the Center's naturalists can visit your school for special assemblies, programs or activities. As you know, some of our birds-of-prey can travel for such programs as can our large collection of wolf and bear artifacts. We will customize the program or the Teaching Trunk for your group and areas of special interest.

It's the little things that matter - we are thrilled to see items from our Summer Wish List showing up in the mail and in person. Thank you for the construction paper, Kongs, extracts, nuts, dried fruit, crunchy treats, paintbrushes, and so much more. Your generosity is astounding. And really fun for the animals and staff to unwrap!

We hope you enjoy this issue, learn a little something, and feel like you are here with us for just a few minutes. It's a pretty special place to be. Have a great couple of weeks and a fantastic summer, and we'll look forward to seeing you soon.

Thanks again for keeping up with us and for all you do.