keepers are hoping they will take to each other and produce cubs.
Polar bears, native to North America, are listed as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species. There are an estimated 22,000-31,000 in the wild, and polar bear numbers are projected to decline by 30% by 2050.
Payton is showing some interest in Anana, but both are being very cautious about their introduction. “It’s developing day-by-day. They’re both taking their time. Blind dating is rough,” said Keeper Melissa. “It’s a lot like online dating. He doesn’t look like his picture, and Polar bears are at the top of the food chain in the it’s a little awkward at first.” Arctic. The only threats to polar bears are humans, Usually living in separate habitats at the North other polar bears, and climate change as the species Carolina Zoo, the bears will be paired together during struggles to survive. mating season (replicating the behavior of wild polar Polar bears are dependent on the sea ice, which is bears) anywhere from February to April. Keepers hunting grounds for their primary prey – seals. With are easing them into the courtship, so this timing is less sea ice each season, polar bears are left with a flexible. Be sure to visit them during this time, and shortened hunting season and less food for survival. you might see them together! Adopt a Polar Bear! Polar Bear Survival February 27, 2022, was International Polar Bear Day. The North Carolina Zoo is among an elite group of To “adopt” Payton and/or Anana and support their care 40 zoos, aquariums, and museums that are Arctic at the North Carolina Zoo, visit nczoosocietystore. Ambassador Centers (AAC) through a partnership with Polar Bears International (PBI). PBI is the leading com/adopt-a-polar-bear. conservation group in the world that works to conserve polar bears.
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For more information about polar bears and how you can help save them, visit polarbearsinternational.org.
