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Published February 24, 2013, 12:00 AM

GALLERY: The world's oldest wild bear


Bear no. 56 is seen shortly after emerging from its den in March 2012. Photo: DNR

  • Bear no. 56 is seen shortly after emerging from its den in March 2012. Photo: DNR
  • Dave Garshelis, bear project leader for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources at Grand Rapids, uses a flashlight to check out a 39-year-old bear that has been part of a DNR research study since 1981. Forum News Service photo by Bob King.
  • When Bear #56 made its den last fall, she pulled dried grasses in to insulate the cavity. Forum News Service photo by Bob King.
  • Bear no. 56 peers from its den in Chippewa National Forest near Marcell. At 39 years old, #56 has lived longer than any other known wild bear. Although their body functions slow during hiberation, bears still occasionally awaken for brief periods. Forum News Service photo by Bob King.
  • Dave Garshelis, bear project leader for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources at Grand Rapids, measures the opening of the den being used by Bear no.56. The opening is about 15 inches by 15 inches. Forum News Service photo by Bob King.