In February 2017 I purchased some hunting acreage in southeastern Oklahoma little did I know that I would soon have bear trouble. After a few months of scouting, I identified two prime spots to place feeders and tree stands. The next few weeks were spent hauling in gear, clearing shooting lanes, setting up cameras, stands, feeders and enjoying the new campsite.
All that was left was to head out and give the wildlife 3 or 4 weeks to settle into the changes and get used to the new food source. The time had come to a head back to Oklahoma and check the cameras and top the feeders off with corn. When I arrived back at the hunt sites, both feeders were knocked over with corn spilled all over the forest floor. I pulled the camera cards, and to my surprise, I had a large black bear raising havoc.
Bear Trouble Begins
My first solution attempt was to move the feeders up against trees and secure them with ratchet straps. Seemed sturdy enough at the time. But after returning a few weeks later only the northwest feeder survived. The bear had destroyed the southeast feeder beyond repair.
The Bear Wins This Round
It was time to go back to the drawing board and come up with a permanent solution to my bear trouble (that solution can be found in my bear-proof feeder post). For now, the wildlife would get to feed off the hundreds of pounds of corn that had so graciously been served up by my destructive visitor and enjoy the buffet they did. Score one for the bear for now at least.
I can tell your passionate about your work. I see you draw inspiration from your surroundings and create something great in an unusual way . I once read creative people are remarkable for their ability to adapt to almost any situation and to make do with whatever is at hand to reach their goals . I see a deep seated pride and confidence in your ideas, creations and work!
Thanks for sharing….