August 11, 2012 | Tips from Travellers >
Houston, Attractions

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Staring at the big grizzly bear outside of the Houston Visitor Center gives me, and everyone else who witnesses it, an idea of the enormous power found in the wild. I can't help but feel in awe of this 11 foot tall brute, and know the sheer terror that must have gone through the people who saw it when it was still alive. The phantom bear lived on Hungry Hill, feeding off the livestock owned by local ranchers. The bear was caught in 2005, when it was finally discovered by a predator control officer. After the bear was caught he was estimated to be 18-22 years old. Taking a picture of the phantom bear of Hungry Hill was very difficult. The glass surrounding the bear causes reflections so you need to be cautious when taking a picture or you'll end up with unwanted artifacts in the image. I was lucky enough to take a decent picture of the bear, but I probably looked pretty silly trying to take it at the perfect angle. In order to truly value the power, beauty, and magnificence of the 975 pound bear I encourage everyone to stop and check him out.