Have just got back from a weekend in North East Finland, close to the border with Russia. This was primarily to try and see if we could get views of the wild Brown Bears that frequent the forests there, but also to see other wildlife that we were told was found in good numbers in the area. We stayed in the Wild Brown Bear Lodge that is situated close to the town of Lentiira, in a very picturesque setting by a lake and in the middle of the forest. Unfortunately, the only wildlife that seemed to be in abundance were the mosquitoes, millions of them, and despite being caked in mosquito repellent, wearing protective bands and covered from head to toe, the whole group succeeded in being bitten to 'buggery'! We did, however see a couple of brown bears, including the one in the above photos.
Now, something that I dislike with a lot of wildlife watching and it seems to be extremely prevalant where mammals are concerned is the naming of these magnificent beasts. Don't get me wrong, I know why it's done, but it just stinks of anthropomorphology to me. This bear could easily be called 'A1' or some such thing to differentiate him from others, but instead he is known as 'Brutus', a fitting name for one of the largest (250kg +) and oldest (20 yrs) bears in the forest, but I still prefer 'A1'. He was seen after 12 hours in a hide and was quite a magnificent sight as he moved logs that 2 men would struggle with as if they were matchsticks. Always wary for such a large animal, but brilliant views were had until something spooked him and he was off!
More photos will follow, although I am disappointed with all of them.
That's an interesting point about anthropomorphising animals. I never really considered it. I suppose it can lead one to think about animal behaviour in quite the wrong way.
ReplyDeleteI was once on Vancouver Island in British Colombia where they tell you not to try to outrun a brown bear if you see one! You just won't make it.
By the way, if your other photos are as good these, then they will be great!
Thanks Bazza!
DeleteI know why anthropomorphising animals happens, I think it just leads to the 'de naturalising' (if that's a word!) of the natural world. People see animal actions as cruel, where in reality animals do not have the conception of cruelty, only humans do.
The bears in British Colombia can get bigger than the ones in Finland due to their diet of salmon, apparently up to 500kg! Now, that's a big bear!
J
Well this must have been wonderful to ssee but I prefer proper names and he looks like a Brutus
ReplyDeleteHi Margaret!
DeleteIt was pretty special. As I say, just a personal thing about the names.
J
Wow,these are a treat to see,well done,and you made a Mosquitoes Blood donation.
ReplyDeleteWell worth these excellent Images.
John.
Thanks John!
DeleteYes, thanks to me some mosquitoes got some dinner, although some of those didn't survive for much longer!
J