Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! The bears have been rolling, playing, and poking their noses through the white stuff this week, seeming to enjoy the newly covered habitat. We want to thank all of you for sharing in our loss of Illie.

We are working on the final touches in the High Country habitat with high hopes of bringing Leopold and Summit into the new enclosure before the end of the year. The wolves are still getting enrichment daily; we expect to see that change to less frequent feedings of elk rib cages and wild game offerings in the next few weeks.

The birds-of-prey are mostly tucked in for the winter, with bald eagles Josh and Zack still experiencing the fresh air of the outdoor aviary for another week or two, as long as the weather holds. Whether winter weather in November makes you hide your head under the covers or pull out your snowsuit in glee, remember that bald eagles do not mind the cold. In fact the only reason wild eagles migrate in winter is because food sources change. As rivers in the north begin to freeze, eagles move to find available food, not warmth.

 

 
If you haven't visited the GWDC lately, you may have forgotten how many educational opportunities are waiting for you here. Naturalists are always available to talk with you, answer questions, and interpret the behaviors of the animals. In addition, a variety of exhibits, videos, and interactive displays provide a wealth of information. As you can see, even the model den in the viewing area is full of intrigue and fun.

AJ and Trent recently returned from the National Association of Interpreters Conference, where they presented a session in addition to attending a long list of interesting workshops. Their training session at the conference went very well. They learned a lot and were able to work with some amazing people! What does this mean for you? New programs, new ways of presenting information, and new resources!

We have school and university groups visiting and a couple of interesting film projects on the calendar, as well as the West Yellowstone After School program to enjoy as the season changes from fall to winter. 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.

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 autumn, and we'll look forward to seeing you soon.

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