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Show Bear's Propensity for Hugging Termed Myth The proverbial hugging propensity of hears is probably a myth, notwithstanding notwith-standing a vast amount of alleged testimony to the contrary. Literature, reference books and works on natural history contain numerous references to the "crushing embrace" or "deathly hug" of bears. Tope, for instance, says. '"Tis a bear's talent not to kick, but hug." Nearly all careful observers are agreed that this notion is erroneous. It probably arose from faulty observation. observa-tion. Dr. V. Reid Blair, director of the New York Zoological park, says on this subject : "in regard to the proverbial hug, the story Is apparently devoid of foundation. A bear, on account of Its anatomical structure, strikes round with Its paws as if grasping, and the blow of its powerful arm drives Its claws Into the body of its victim.which action apparently gave rise to its hugging hug-ging reputation." Exchange. |