There were contractions. There were grunts. There was a LOT of movement around that little squishy den. But then, at 4.30am my time came the squawks of a new born black bear cub. Lily's keeping her very close to her so the only image of the cub so far as been a few leg shots, but in time we'll see the cub more. Although there's been some talk of her still having contractions, it looks like it's over for Lily and she just has the one little bub to take care of. For being a first time mother, I don't think she minds that much.
I managed to get some pretty good shots of Lily during her labour, and I'm sure I'll get some of the cub when he decides to show his little face.
Lily as a cub herself
Lily all growed up, digging her den.
Lily's den
All hidden away
Lily's paw and nose
Lily trying to get comfortable
Still not comfy...
Not yet...
Hmph..
Getting sleepy...
Very sleepy...
ARGH! Contractions! (she's on her head with her butt in the air)
Help me!!
Lick, lick, lick.
There were more than 50,000 viewers at the time Lily gave birth. The footage was being shown to school children, in faming living rooms, all across the world. I feel very privileged to have been a part of such a monumental event in the world of animal conservation. So much has been learned from Lily, and there's still countless more things to be learned. The researchers are doing a wonderful job, and I am so grateful to them for sharing this with the world.
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