– A heartwarming tale of two orphaned Alaskan coastal brown bear cubs finding a new home at Brookfield Zoo.
– Insights into the care and preparation involved in transporting Tim and Jess, the bear siblings, to their new habitat.
– Educational perspectives on Alaskan coastal brown bears’ natural history and behavior.
– The role of zoological facilities in conservation and wildlife management.
– Opportunities for visitors to engage with and learn from the newest additions to Great Bear Wilderness at Brookfield Zoo.
As autumn leaves give way to winter’s chill, a new chapter begins at Chicago’s renowned Brookfield Zoo with the arrival of Tim and Jess, charismatic 11-month-old siblings who have rapidly become its most talked-about residents. These Alaskan coastal brown bear cubs have a story that is as touching as it is crucial to share.
The journey of these endearing cubs began in the wilderness of Anchorage, Alaska, where, sadly, they were found without their mother, making their survival in the wild uncertain. On December 11, these young adventurers opened their eyes to a spacious sanctuary that will be their domain at the Great Bear Wilderness exhibit. Their presence serves as a beacon of hope, embodying the spirit of wildlife conservation and offering visitors a peek into the world of one of nature’s most majestic creatures.
Those strolling through the Zoo daily between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. can witness Tim and Jess exploring, playing, and growing in their carefully designed outdoor habitat. These hours, just the start of their public life, will expand as the cubs become more rooted in their new environment, a testament to their resilience and adaptability.
The story of these bears’ journey is not just of travel across a continent but of collaboration among the devoted individuals and organizations committed to the welfare of wildlife. From the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, which ensured their initial safety, to the intermediate care provided by Alaska Zoo, and now, their permanent home at Brookfield Zoo, it is a narrative of an exemplary communion of efforts.
The Cubs’ relocation to Chicago was made possible thanks to the generous support of FedEx, showcasing just one of the many ways corporations can positively impact animal conservation initiatives. Upon their arrival in early November, Tim and Jess were greeted by the dedicated animal care specialists of Brookfield Zoo, weighing around 150 pounds each—the beginning of their care in the hands of passionate professionals.
But this is more than an account of a journey; it’s a glimpse into the thoughtful and meticulous world of species preservation, where every measure is taken to create a home away from home. Since landing in their new abode, Tim and Jess have undergone comprehensive physical examinations and have been eased into their new surroundings behind the scenes, a testament to the deep understanding of the nuanced needs of each animal.
Alaskan coastal brown bears, such as Tim and Jess, are a wonder of nature. With impressive strength, sharp intelligence, and a keen ability to adapt, they are often seen as the very symbol of the wild. As guests watch these siblings meander through their habitat, it’s an opportunity to learn about the intricate dance of nature—how each species plays a role and how, without them, our ecosystem would be a lesser place.
In the watchful eyes of the public, these cubs serve as ambassadors for their species, giving faces to the stories of wildlife in need and teaching us that our actions have consequences that ripple across the globe. They remind us of the delicate balance we must maintain and the stewardship we must uphold.
Furthermore, the existence of places like Brookfield Zoo serves multiple purposes. They provide shelter for animals like Tim and Jess and serve as centers for education, research, and the fostering of public interest in wildlife preservation. They remind us that while nature can be unforgiving, there is a place for kindness and intervention, particularly when the survival of a species comes into question.
Visitors to Brookfield Zoo’s Great Bear Wilderness can embark on a journey of discovery armed with curiosity and a hunger for knowledge. They will witness the splendor of the bear siblings and take home more than photographs; they will carry a broader understanding of the grand tapestry that is our natural world and the roles each of us plays in preserving it for future generations.
Engagement goes beyond observation, as visitors are awakened to the meticulous care of every animal within the Zoo’s confines. The diet, enrichment, and psychological well-being of residents like Tim and Jess are handled with precision-guided by science, empathy, and a profound respect for the intrinsic value of each living creature.
This new beginning for Tim and Jess signifies the enduring commitment to wildlife conservation and education at Brookfield Zoo. The Great Bear Wilderness is not merely an exhibit; it is a place where conservation meets compassion, knowledge is shared, and where human and animal lives are touched. The arrival of these cubs is a testament to the ongoing mission of zoos to act as a sanctuary for those who would otherwise face uncertain futures.
In conclusion, the story of Tim and Jess is one of survival, collaboration, and new beginnings. Their debut at Brookfield Zoo invites us all to witness the beauty of nature’s design, participate in the conservation story, and remember that every creature has a place in this world. As you plan your visit, know that you are not just attending an exhibit; you are stepping into a story that continues to unfold with each step these cubs take in their new home.
*****
Source Description
Tim and Jess, two 11-month-old Alaskan coastal brown bears, made their public debut at Brookfield Zoo’s Great Bear Wilderness today, December 11. Guests can see the growing cubs in their outdoor habitat between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily. The hours will be extended as they get more acclimated to their new home.
The cubs arrived at the Zoo in early November and were orphaned in Anchorage, Alaska. They now have a forever home at Brookfield Zoo, thanks to the collaborative efforts among the Zoo, Alaska Zoo, and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G).
ADF&G officials safely retrieved the bears in Anchorage and contacted Brookfield Zoo about providing the brother and sister cubs with a permanent home. The young animals were temporarily housed at Alaska Zoo while logistics for transporting them to Chicago were finalized. On November 3, animal care specialists from Brookfield Zoo accompanied the then approximately 150-pound cubs to Chicago, thanks to the extreme generosity of FedEx.
Since arriving at Brookfield Zoo, the bears have received physical examinations and have become familiar with their new home behind the scenes and the animal care staff.
Visit www.czs.org for more information about Brookfield Zoo.
