advertisement
10 June 2024
In a tale that seems straight out of a wildlife mystery novel, a young bear cub dubbed Buddy has left Arizona wildlife officials scratching their heads. Discovered in a Tucson neighborhood and subsequently placed at the Bearizona Wildlife Park in Williams, Buddy’s journey has raised more questions than answers.
One of the most puzzling aspects of Buddy’s story is his size. When he was rescued in December, he weighed a mere 15 pounds, a fraction of what would be expected for a bear cub of his age. Typically, bear cubs in the United States are born between January and February and should weigh around 70 pounds by the end of the year. Buddy’s diminutive stature suggests that he is much younger than his appearance indicates, prompting comparisons to an elf from a popular Christmas movie and earning him the fitting moniker “Buddy.”
The timing of Buddy’s discovery is also unusual. Bear cubs are not typically born in August or September, as it would have been for Buddy to be found in December. Such a scenario is practically unheard of in the world of bear biology, adding another layer of mystery to his origins.
Furthermore, Buddy’s comfort around humans has raised eyebrows among wildlife experts. Unlike most wild animals, who tend to avoid human contact, Buddy displays an unusual lack of fear and seems at ease in human company. This behavior has led to speculation that Buddy may have been illegally fed by humans for an extended period, potentially explaining both his comfort around people and his stunted growth.
The circumstances of Buddy’s arrival at Bearizona only deepen the mystery. Found in a Tucson neighborhood, far from his natural habitat in the Catalina Mountains, Buddy’s journey from the mountains to civilization is a baffling feat for a bear of his size. How he managed to traverse such a distance without falling prey to predators remains a perplexing question for wildlife officials.
Despite the many unknowns surrounding Buddy’s story, one thing is certain: he has found a safe haven at Bearizona. Thankfully, his unusual size and behavior did not result in euthanasia, and he now has the opportunity to live out his days in the high country. Visitors to Bearizona are welcome to meet Buddy and marvel at this enigmatic creature, whose story may forever remain shrouded in mystery.
advertisement
Arizona is widely known for places like the Grand Canyon and Saguaro National Forest, but one of its most stunning and underrated treasures is Aravaipa Canyon. Just southeast of Phoenix and northeast of Tucson, this wilderness area remains a well-kept secret for those seeking a fun outdoor adventure. Aravaipa Canyon offers a rare combination of serene beauty, challenging terrain, and diverse wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for backpackers, nature lovers, and adventurers alike. advertisement A Breathtaking Wilderness Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness spans an impressive 19,410 acres and is located in Graham and Pinal counties. The canyon itself stretches over 11
Arizona is home to some of the most intricate and unique cultural traditions in the United States, and among them is the Hopi people’s craftsmanship of Kachina figures. These carvings, often referred to as kachina dolls, serve as much more than mere decoration—they are educational tools, spiritual symbols, and artistic expressions. Through these figures, the Hopi pass down knowledge of their belief systems, traditions, and the spirits that influence their daily lives. advertisement What Are Hopi Kachina Figures? Hopi kachina figures are intricately carved dolls, traditionally made from cottonwood root, by members of the Hopi tribe who live primarily in
Long before Sedona became today’s popular destination, a few adventurous souls made their homes in this what we now revere as a geological wonderland. At 4,350 feet in Central Arizona’s Verde Valley, Sedona is surrounded by a dramatic landscape shaped by volcanic activity and erosion. These natural forces carved out Oak Creek Canyon and created the signature oxidized red rocks that have made the area internationally famous, and make up the Red Rock State Park. advertisement Red Rock State Park, which spans 286 acres just nine miles south of downtown Sedona, now protects this remarkable terrain. Established in 1991, the
Spirit of Arizona Tours (SOA) offers a unique experience that blends history, mystery, and culture in one journey. Locally owned and operated, SOA takes pride in sharing Phoenix’s hidden gems—those lesser-known places that often slip under the radar of mainstream tours. advertisement Founded in September 2019 by Arizona native Jarrod Riddle, SOA was born from his desire to share Phoenix’s untold stories. As well as overlooked sites with locals and visitors alike. From true crime tales and ghost stories to the art of murals and the soul of the city’s tacos, Riddle’s tours provide a fresh perspective on the city’s
