Tuesday, September 9, 2008

Bummed out polar bear





We went to the Tulsa Zoo yesterday and the polar bear was acting so depressed. I sat and watched him for about 20 mintues and he swam back and forth in the same spot and stepped out of the water in the same place for about 2 seconds. Every time he stepped out of the water to turn around he would tilt his head twice EXACTLY the same right before he went back in the water. It was almost eerie.

I googled his actions and found out that this is common for captive polar bears. They will someone walk or pace in the same place for a large percentage of their day. In most cases the zookeepers will try to discourage the bear from doing this by trying to stimulate it or letting it go in and out of its den at its own leisure. Some have suspected it to be a sign of depression or discontent.

After reading this I was so sad because last time we went to the zoo the same polar bear was walking in a methodical circle the entire time we were there.

I sent an email to the zoo asking if they are trying to remedy the behavior and how long he has been doing it. I bet they hate it when people do that. I can't stop thinking about it though...

2 comments:

Clare said...

As neat as it is to be able to visit a zoo and see animals you otherwise would not see - it is sad to think of them being in captivity - not living the way they were meant to be.
How did Jack like the zoo?

kubimarie said...

He loved it. He loves the lions. says Rarrrrrrr all day every day cause he loves them so much. i love this age!