Camera Trap Vandals
In April 2006, the Texas Bigfoot Research Conservancy initiated a long-term camera trap project called Operation Forest Vigil. Study sites were established in two remote areas located in the Ouachita Mountains of Oklahoma/Arkansas and in East Texas. Although both areas are characterized by high rainfall and extensive forest, in addition to long histories of sasquatch sightings, they differ from each other in many ecological aspects. One significant difference that quickly became apparent to TBRC researchers was the presence of the American black bear (Ursus americanus) in the mountains of southwestern Arkansas and southeastern Oklahoma. Actually, the presence of black bears in the mountains was well known; what TBRC members did not realize was the impact bear activity would have on Operation Forest Vigil.