Ananova :

Scientists puzzled by sleeping grizzlies

Bears in Canada are going into hibernation a month earlier than usual to the amazement of biologists.

Environment Canada has predicted a warm, dry winter but biologists say the behaviour of grizzlies in Jasper National Park is making them wonder if this is correct.

Scientists wonder if the bears know something they don't.

Biologist Gord Stenhouse said: "Nineteen of the 21 bears we've been monitoring are now hibernating.

The other two look like they're going to do the same soon."

Mr Stenhouse, who works for the Foothills Model Forest Grizzly Bear Project, is puzzled by their behaviour.

According to folklore early hibernation usually means a long, snowy winter, reports the Calgary Sun.

Dan Kulak, from Environment Canada, welcomed the prospect of a snowy winter.

"Our forecast isn't good for skiers, farmers or the water table. Maybe the grizzlies do know something we don't know," he said.

-- Anonymous, November 13, 2001