Luna- Social Dynamics

Staff are working with Luna to improve her social skills, but the reality is that Grizzer is the best companion to help Luna develop a better social relationship with fellow pack mates.  Grizzer is tolerant, yet will not back down when confronted.   Food possession can still be confrontational, but we have made significant strides and can now feed Grizzer in the presence of Luna.   Early in the introduction phase, we needed to separate the two, ensuring that Grizzer could eat in peace.  Now, we don’t separate, although we always have 2 staff feeding at the same time to avoid competition.  We have noticed an increase in social behavior between Luna and Grizzer, especially on the security cameras.  We can tell when Luna is in the mood to interact, she starts by tossing items in the air, then does a scrape across the ground, lowering her front legs into a playbow before springing away and inviting Grizzer to chase.  If you recall, Grizzer is known for displaying chase behavior, even when he lived alone, so having someone to chase or to be chased is stimulating.  It’s also great exercise for Luna who needs to stay on the slim side to avoid stress on her hip joint.