Yes, there are polar bears at the Columbus Zoo, specifically in the Polar Frontier region. The zoo currently has two polar bears, Lee and Aurora.
The Polar Bears at the Columbus Zoo
The Columbus Zoo is home to two polar bears, Lee and Aurora, in the Polar Frontier region. Let’s take a closer look at these magnificent creatures:
Lee
- Lee is a 23-year-old male polar bear.
- He returned to the Columbus Zoo in February 2023 after spending time at the Louisville Zoo.
Aurora
- Aurora is a female polar bear.
- She is currently in her denning period, which begins in the fall and lasts until the spring.
- During this time, she is separated from the male polar bear, Lee, to provide a safe and quiet environment for her and any potential cubs.
The Polar Frontier Region
The Polar Frontier region at the Columbus Zoo offers an interactive and educational experience for visitors. Here’s what you can expect:
Batelle Ice Bear Outpost
- This area provides opportunities for guests to learn about polar bear conservation and engage in science-based activities.
Polar Playground
- The Polar Playground features a themed play area with a replica tundra buggy, slides, igloos, and jumping spots.
Polar Grille and Yukon Fossils & Gems Gift Shop
- The Polar Grille offers food options for visitors.
- The Yukon Fossils & Gems Gift Shop provides souvenirs for visitors to remember their experience.
Polar Bear Behavior and Conservation
Polar bears in the wild are not true hibernators but instead go into a deep sleep called torpor during the winter months. Their body temperatures do not drop significantly, and they wake up on occasion to conserve energy. At the Columbus Zoo, the polar bears have a designated cave where they can sleep during the winter.
The Columbus Zoo is committed to conservation efforts for polar bears and other threatened and endangered species. Here are some of the zoo’s contributions:
- The zoo has contributed over $300,000 to polar bear conservation projects since 1998.
- The Columbus Zoo is designated as an Arctic Ambassador Center by Polar Bears International.
- The polar bears at the Columbus Zoo provide critical scientific information that is used by polar bear researchers to understand polar bear behavior, health, and general biology in their native range.
Conclusion
In summary, the Columbus Zoo is home to two polar bears, Lee and Aurora, in the Polar Frontier region. The zoo offers interactive and educational experiences for visitors, and is committed to conservation efforts for polar bears and other threatened and endangered species.
References:
– Columbus Zoo – Polar Frontier
– Columbus Zoo – Bearing Hope: Polar Bear Denning at the Columbus Zoo
– ABC6 – Columbus Zoo and Aquarium welcomes back 23-year-old polar bear Lee
– Columbus Zoo – Adult Male Polar Bear Lee Welcomed Back