(WXYZ) — The Detroit Zoo has a new resident.
Female polar bear Anana arrived to Michigan from the Cincinnati Zoo and joins 15-year-old male Nuka and 7-year-old female Suka in the Arctic Ring of Life.
“Anana is exploring the tundra in the Arctic Ring of Life and very quickly acclimating to her new home here at the Detroit Zoo,” said Scott Carter, chief life sciences officer for the Detroit Zoological Society (DZS). “We’re very happy she’s here to join Nuka and Suka, and invite everyone to come welcome her on International Polar Bear Day.”
She arrived at the Detroit Zoo on a breeding recommendation.
“Nuka and Anana appear curious and interested, which is a good sign,” said Carter. “We’re optimistic for future breeding and carefully watching how their relationship develops.”
Polar bear breeding season occurs in early spring, and after about an eight-month gestation period, typically one to two cubs are born.
International Polar Bear Day is on Thursday, Feb. 27. The Detroit Zoo will hold an event that includes zookeeper talks and educational activities from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“Our hope is that the million-plus people who visit the Detroit Zoo each year leave here with a greater understanding of the issues facing polar bears in the wild and the knowledge that all of us can do something to help save these animals and their fragile arctic habitat,” said Carter.
