When after a long winter sun warms up the surface of the Earth, all forms of life welcome the arrival of spring. For bears it's time to re-establish boundaries of their domains and to find new mates. But this natural task may sometimes become a more complex matter.
Let's look at this bear. Happily rumbling in the vicinity of its cave it suddenly realises that not one, not two, not even three, but four of its previous mating partners are inhabiting the very same valley.Encountering an old mating partner is potentially very dangerous for any bear. To mention just a few risks it can cause a spread of infectious diseases which make an animal incapable of bonding with a new and potential partner, it can cause a temporary mental retardedness resulting in longing for and following old mates, it can also lead to a bloodshed and dramatically ruthless fights over the territory.
Having been following this particular bear for a while we know that so far it won all the confrontations due to its strength, stamina and vigour. We also know how peculiarly strong bonds it established with the animals that formed alliance with it. Whether a little tree frog, a fox or a wild boar these animals instinctively know that the bear is not only the ruler but also the protector.
In the afternoon sun the bear is spending its time playfully. Suddenly it stands on its hint legs and roars loudly. Its fur is shimmering in the light.
