LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Louisville Zoo is getting a "Bo" for their polar bear!
The zoo announced that Qannik is joining the the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) cooperative breeding program. Her breeding mate will be Borealis a.k.a. Bo.
“Over the years, AZA professionals have had multiple meetings about the few polar bears that have been rescued as orphaned cubs and their potential to be parents. Due to her wild-born status, Qannik has existed, until recently, in a kind of nebulous, reproductive “Twilight Zone” category," Dan Maloney, Louisville Zoo director, said.
Bo was born at the Toledo Zoo, and came to the Louisville Zoo from the Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison, Wisconsin. He's named after the Aurora Borealis.
The over 1,000 pound bear is currently on exhibit at Glacier Run, so you can visit him now.
“Breeding recommendations are an important part of ensuring the species’ future," Maloney said. "As a wild-born bear, Qannik’s genes are not represented anywhere within in the zoo population. Her contribution to the health of the species will be vital. When determining potential pairings, genetic pedigree, age and temperament are all important factors for consideration."
The zoo had another polar bear, Lee, but he returned to the Columbus Zoo last February for mating reasons.
Then, in October, the zoo was supposed to get another bear, Payton, from the North Carolina Zoo. However, he died while being transferred.
The zoo is open daily year-round. Now through March 15, hours are 10 a.m. ─ 4 p.m. (but you can stay until 5 p.m.)
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