August
This is generally a quiet month. Adults are recovering their body condition, while cubs may struggle to find food especially in hot, dry summers. Hungry cubs are often seen during the day, or injured in accidents as they explore more distant parts of their natal territory.
September
Both adults and cubs have nearly finished growing new winter coats, while the young are reaching adult size. Competition between cubs, and cubs and adults, intensifies: fights can be very noisy, with rivals chasing each other or squaring up on their hindlegs. Bite wounds are common.
October
Now is the onset of the dispersal period, with male cubs leaving first. Territorial defence increases – adults actively patrol, and can be very vocal. High levels of competition within social groups are common. Young males look for vacant territories, and many are killed on the roads as they explore.
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