Denver Zoo Klondike and Snow are a pair of polar bear cubs born on November 6, 1994, at the Denver Zoo. Their mother, Ulu, abandoned them shortly after birth, and the zoo staff took on the task of hand-rearing the cubs. This remarkable story captivated the nation, and the twins became local celebrities in Denver.
Hand-Rearing and Early Life
The Denver Zoo staff, led by senior veterinarian Dr. Bruce Jobe, worked tirelessly to care for the cubs. They were fed a specialized formula, and their diet included cod liver oil and safflower oil to ensure they received the necessary nutrients. The cubs were kept in a nursery and were monitored closely for any signs of distress or health issues. The staff also used creative methods to stimulate the cubs’ natural behaviors, such as providing a “wading pool” to help them learn to swim.
Move to SeaWorld Orlando
In November 1995, Klondike and Snow were relocated to SeaWorld Orlando in Florida. They spent the next 17 years together, becoming a popular attraction at the park. During their time in Florida, the cubs grew into healthy adult polar bears, with Snow weighing around 500 pounds.
Separation and Later Life
In 2012, Snow was moved to the Reid Park Zoo in Tucson, Arizona, due to chronic skin allergies. The drier climate in Tucson was hoped to alleviate her condition. Unfortunately, Snow died seven months later due to an undiagnosed heart condition. Klondike remained at SeaWorld Orlando until his death in 2013 at the age of 18.
Legacy and Impact
The story of Klondike and Snow has been documented in a book titled “Klondike & Snow: The Denver Zoo’s Remarkable Story of Raising Two Polar Bear Cubs,” which details their early life and the zoo staff’s efforts to care for them. The twins’ journey has also been featured in a 1996 documentary by New Hampshire Public Television.
Key Facts and Figures
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | November 6, 1994 |
| Mother | Ulu |
| Hand-Rearing | By Denver Zoo staff |
| Move to SeaWorld Orlando | November 1995 |
| Separation | 2012 (Snow moved to Reid Park Zoo, Tucson) |
| Snow’s Death | 2012 (due to heart condition) |
| Klondike’s Death | 2013 (at SeaWorld Orlando) |
| Book | “Klondike & Snow: The Denver Zoo’s Remarkable Story of Raising Two Polar Bear Cubs” (published 1995) |
| Documentary | 1996 documentary by New Hampshire Public Television |
The story of Denver Zoo Klondike and Snow is a heartwarming tale of dedication, perseverance, and the bond between humans and animals. The zoo staff’s tireless efforts to hand-rear the abandoned cubs and their subsequent journey to SeaWorld Orlando and beyond have captivated audiences worldwide. While their lives were ultimately cut short, Klondike and Snow’s legacy lives on through the book, documentary, and the memories of those who were inspired by their story.