Summary:
– Polar bears have a varied diet in the wild, which the zoo aims to mimic.
– The Animal Care, Health, and Welfare team ensures the bears’ metabolic processes are normal.
– Larisa, Supervisor of Animal Nutrition and Supplies, explains how the zoo achieves this through the bears’ diet.
– The bears at the zoo are fans of produce, especially corn.
– The zoo aims to provide a balanced diet for the bears, including fish and meat.
Welcome to Polar Bear Week, where we delve into the unique and captivating aspects of these magnificent creatures. One of the questions we frequently receive is about polar bears’ diet. What do they eat? You might be surprised to learn that our newest zoo residents are huge fans of produce, especially corn! In this article, we’ll explore the varied diets of polar bears and how our Animal Care, Health, and welfare team ensures their nutritional needs are met while mimicking their natural diet. Join us on this exciting journey into the fascinating world of zoo nutrition!
The Varied Diet of Polar Bears:
In the wild, polar bears adapt their diet according to the seasons. During the summer and fall, they primarily consume seals, their favorite delicacy. However, as the ice melts and hunting becomes more challenging, these resourceful creatures adopt a more versatile approach to their diet. They explore other food sources and adapt to survive. This dietary flexibility in the wild serves as our inspiration in planning the zoo residents’ meals.
Mimicking Nature:
Our expert team at the zoo strives to recreate a naturalistic environment for our polar bears. This includes providing them with a diet that mimics their wild counterparts as closely as possible. Why is this so important? By replicating their natural diet, we ensure that the bears’ metabolic processes remain normal, promoting their overall health and well-being.
Introducing Larisa, Supervisor of Animal Nutrition and Supplies:
Larisa, our knowledgeable Supervisor of Animal Nutrition and Supplies, is crucial in designing and implementing the polar bears’ diet. Her wealth of experience and dedication to animal welfare ensures our bears receive a wholesome and balanced nutritional plan.
Embracing Produce:
Did you know that polar bears at our zoo are huge produce fans? Yes, you read that right! While fresh fish and lean meats remain an important part of their diet, we’ve discovered their love for produce, especially corn. The bears happily munch on this nutritious snack, providing them with essential vitamins and minerals. Who knew that corn would be such a hit among these Arctic giants?
A Balanced Diet:
While produce plays a delightful role in the polar bears’ diet, it’s essential to maintain a balance. Larisa and her team expertly craft their meals to ensure a holistic approach to nutrition. Fresh fish, including species like salmon and trout, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and provide the bears with the protein they need to thrive. Lean meats, such as beef and chicken, supplement their diet and improve their overall health.
Enhancing Behavioral Enrichment:
Our dedicated team recognizes the importance of behavioral enrichment in the lives of our polar bears. We don’t simply provide them with food for sustenance; we aim to stimulate their instincts and promote physical activity. By creatively incorporating food into enrichment activities, such as puzzle feeders, we engage the bears’ problem-solving skills while satisfying their hunger. This combination of mental and physical stimulation helps create a dynamic and enriching environment for our beloved residents.
Continual Monitoring and Adaptation:
The welfare of our animals is paramount, and our team continuously monitors the bears’ behavior and overall health to ensure our nutritional approach meets their needs. We adapt their diets, considering age, activity level, and individual preferences. By closely observing their responses to various foods, Larisa and her team fine-tune their nutritional plans, guaranteeing that every meal supports optimal health and vitality.
As we wrap up this exploration of polar bear nutrition, we hope you’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the intricate processes involved in meeting our bears’ dietary needs. From their varied wild diet to our innovative techniques at the zoo, the care and attention given to creating a balanced and enriching nutrition plan highlight our commitment to these magnificent creatures. Join us next time as we unveil more fascinating aspects of the polar bear world during our Polar Bear Week celebrations.
#YourZooYYC #WildCanadaYYC #PolarBearWeek
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Source Description
We get asked all the time – what are the polar bears going to eat? You might be surprised that our newest zoo residents are huge fans of produce – especially corn! 🌽
In the wild, a polar bear’s diet varies according to season, and our Animal Care, Health & Welfare team is working to mimic their natural diet and ensure normal metabolic processes. Listen to Larisa, Supervisor of Animal Nutrition and Supplies, about how we do this and what the bears will eat. 🥬🐟🥩
#YourZooYYC #WildCanadaYYC #PolarBearWeek
