Our 700-Pound Research Assistant
For months, Robert has been working like a mad scientist with creative partners to refine the automated scent dispenser he co-invented to attract carnivores to camera stations deep in the wilderness. The dispenser has been highly effective at helping us detect wolverines, lynx, fishers, and other rare carnivores over the winter, and will be used by numerous research projects—including our own—this year.
As we prepare to make the latest model of the dispenser more widely available to other field biologists through Woodland Park Zoo, we want to be sure the device can hold up to bears who might venture into camera stations. In the field, the dispenser is filled with stinky scent lure and secured to a tree—tempting bears of all sizes to climb up and explore.
Photo: Woodland Park Zoo
In June, the Zoo’s resident grizzly bear, Keema, was happy to lend a paw to testing two dispensers for durability. Caretakers made the dispensers irresistible to Keema by cramming one with trout and the other with cat food and jam—and then smearing the exteriors with bacon grease. Below, you can see for yourself that the dispenser passed with flying colors, though Keema had fun trying to open her version of a can of Pringles. Rest assured that she was well-rewarded for her efforts. Thanks Keema!
Photo: Doug Bonham
Photo: Woodland Park Zoo
Photo: Woodland Park Zoo