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Fall is an exciting time to be in bear country, as bears will be feeding extensively on nutrient-rich wild foods in anticipation of the long winter ahead. Biologists refer to their fall feeding, especially on hard mast, as hyperphagy, as the bears may consume between 18,000 to 20,000 calories per day to fatten up for hibernation. We will see plenty of black bear sign, which could include tracks, trails, scat, bear nests, digs, claw and bite marks on trees, whammy trees, wallows, and more. We will share with you an area that we have been visiting for over twenty-five years, as well as some exciting newly-discovered sites with intense bear activity, including what have come to be known as bear ritual trails. Come learn about these highly intelligent animals in the crisp, clean autumn air of the scenic Quabbin hills.
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Tracking & Nature Center