Brookfield Zoo recently welcomed two orphaned Alaskan coastal brown bear cubs, named Tim and Jess, who were rescued from Anchorage, Alaska. This collaborative effort involved the Brookfield Zoo, Alaska Zoo, and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G). Here’s an in-depth look at the steps taken to introduce these orphaned bear cubs to Brookfield Zoo and the facilities and care they receive.
Introducing the Brookfield Zoo Baby Bears
- Retrieval and Temporary Housing: ADF&G officials safely retrieved the bears in Anchorage and temporarily housed them at the Alaska Zoo while logistics were finalized for transporting them to Chicago.
- Transportation: The cubs were transported to Chicago via a FedEx cargo plane, accompanied by animal care specialists from Brookfield Zoo.
- Medical Care: Upon arrival, the bears received physical examinations to ensure they were meeting their growth milestones. They also underwent blood work, examination of extremities and oral cavities, and received routine vaccinations.
- Acclimation: The cubs were kept behind the scenes for a period to acclimate to their new environment and the animal care staff.
Facilities and Care at Brookfield Zoo
- Great Bear Wilderness: The cubs are housed in the Great Bear Wilderness exhibit, which provides a suitable environment for their growth and development.
- Veterinary Care: The zoo’s veterinary staff provides regular medical check-ups and vaccinations to ensure the bears’ health.
- Enrichment Features: The exhibit includes physical enrichment features such as water features, trees, and boulders to provide a natural and stimulating environment for the bears.
- Animal Care Staff: The zoo’s animal care staff closely monitors and cares for the bears, ensuring they receive the best possible care.
Public Viewing and Conservation
- Public Debut: The bears made their public debut on December 11, 2023, and can be seen in their outdoor habitat between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily.
- Conservation: The Brookfield Zoo’s efforts contribute to the conservation of brown bears, which are listed as “least concern” on the IUCN Red List but still face threats such as habitat loss and human-bear conflicts.
Additional Information
- Age and Weight: The cubs are approximately 11 months old and weighed around 150 pounds when they arrived at the zoo.
- Species: Alaskan coastal brown bears are found throughout most of Alaska and can weigh up to 1,500 pounds.
- Other Bears at the Zoo: Brookfield Zoo is also home to a 28-year-old brown bear named Axhi, who was orphaned in 1995.
The Brookfield Zoo’s efforts to care for these orphaned Alaskan coastal brown bear cubs are commendable. By providing a safe and enriching environment, the zoo is not only ensuring the well-being of these bears but also contributing to the conservation of the species. Visitors to the Brookfield Zoo can now witness the growth and development of these remarkable animals.