A backscratching bear’s dance
I visited Jasper National Park for a couple of days over the Victoria Day long weekend. The park has a different feel (both are great – just different) from Banff and I always look forward to spending time there. I plan to share a few stories of time I spent with some of the magnificent wildlife there but will start with a really fun moment.
This black bear was grazing in the ground cover of a stretch of open forest when I found him. I watched him scratch, sniff and chew on shrubs, flowers and roots for several minutes and then he sauntered over to this small tree.
Rearing up on his hind legs, he seemed really happy to rub his back up and down against the spiky needles. I’m not sure how much scratching he felt with his thick coat so maybe it was more for the scent or to shake off some insects. No matter the reason, it was cool to see a bear dancing for his own reasons.
Christopher Martin Photography 
Pingback: Same bear, similar itch, different tree | Christopher Martin Photography
Talk about great timing, Christopher! Terrific series.
June 2, 2015 at 5:10 pm
Pingback: The bear’s dancing in the UK! | Christopher Martin Photography
Pingback: A truly lone wolf | Christopher Martin Photography
What a great experience – and you got some really nice bear photos there. I have to agree with you comment on Jasper, we much prefer it over Banff and busy Lake Louise:)
May 20, 2015 at 10:27 pm
Reblogged this on lakeso.
May 20, 2015 at 6:59 pm
I think he’s posing for your, Chris!! 🙂
Wonderful images.
May 20, 2015 at 6:55 pm
Awesome pics! He looks like he was waving to you!
May 20, 2015 at 12:15 pm
Thanks for the experience. I would be too frightened to hit shutter!!
May 20, 2015 at 4:48 am