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We noticed a number of trees marked by bears (grizzlies undoubtedly!). Some had barbed wire on them in this pattern. A ranger later quizzed us why (we were wrong) - they are part of DNA collection program hoping to determine the grizzly population strength. When the bears scratch their backs, a little hair and maybe skin cells get caught on the wire. Chris later pointed out this must be the famous bear DNA study John McCain ridiculed during the 08 campaign!