Grouse Mountain Grizzlies Awake from Hibernation
Grinder and Coola complete 18th winter dormancy period at the Peak of Vancouver
April 2, 2019
(North Vancouver) Cheers and applause greeted Grouse Mountain’s two resident Grizzly bears, Grinder and Coola, as they eagerly emerged from hibernation earlier this morning at the Peak of Vancouver.
This concludes the bears’ 18th hibernation period at the Grouse Mountain Refuge for Endangered Wildlife. During their 128-day winter dormancy, wildlife rangers once again monitored Grinder and Coola via an infrared camera placed in their hibernation den and the live feed was shared with the public on the Grouse Mountain website.
"It’s always a pleasure to welcome Grinder and Coola out of hibernation and watch them playfully explore their habitat", said Dr. Ken Macquisten, Refuge Director and Veterinarian. "Hibernation through the winter is a natural way for Grizzlies to conserve energy during a time of low food availability. The annual awakening of the massive male Grizzlies signals the onset of spring and summer adventures and we welcome all guests to visit these magnificent animals at the Grouse Mountain Refuge for Endangered Wildlife."
Regarded as two of the most popular residents at the Peak of Vancouver, the now 18 year old Grizzly bears Grinder and Coola originally came to Grouse Mountain’s Refuge for Endangered Wildlife in 2001 when they were rescued after being orphaned during separate incidents in Bella Coola and Invermere.
About Grouse Mountain:
Grouse Mountain is the number one visitor attraction in the Lower Mainland, with 1.3 million annual visitors. Known as the Peak of Vancouver, we offer unparalleled panoramic views of the city, sea and surrounding mountains along with a wide range of year-round outdoor and educational activities, dining and more. For more information, please visit grousemountain.com.
