Pittsburgh Zoo: Polar Bear Exhibit & Conservation

The Pittsburgh Zoo, a popular destination, features a captivating polar bear exhibit, and it serves as an important center for polar bear conservation. The exhibit is home to polar bears, and these iconic arctic animals attract numerous visitors, and these visitors are eager to learn about their natural behaviors. The zoo’s efforts in species preservation includes participation in collaborative programs, and these programs help to ensure the survival of vulnerable species like the polar bear. A visit to the zoo provides an opportunity, and this opportunity allows the public to connect with wildlife.

Hey there, animal lovers! Ever find yourself daydreaming about snowy landscapes and majestic creatures? Well, you don’t have to book a trip to the Arctic to experience a touch of the polar magic! Right here in Pittsburgh, we have a real gem – the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. It’s not just a place to see cool animals; it’s a hub buzzing with wildlife conservation efforts from every corner of the globe.

And what’s one of the biggest draws? You guessed it: the polar bear exhibit! These incredible bears are more than just a sight to behold; they’re a powerful reminder of the delicate balance within Arctic ecosystems. The zoo is very dedicated to conservation, education, and research, and this exhibit is a prime example of that commitment.

So, what’s on the agenda for this blog post? We’re diving deep into the zoo’s polar bear program, exploring its profound connection to Arctic conservation. We will also be investigating the impact that climate change has on these incredible animals.

The Arctic Realm: Where Polar Bears Rule (and Face Some Serious Challenges)

Alright, let’s ditch the penguins (they’re Antarctic, duh!) and head way, way up north to the Arctic. Imagine a land of ice, snow, and seemingly endless daylight in the summer, then plunging into long, dark winters. This isn’t just a winter wonderland postcard – it’s a harsh and fragile environment, a place where only the toughest creatures can survive. Think of sweeping, icy plains, colossal glaciers, and a vast, frozen ocean dotted with ice floes – that’s the Arctic! The climate? Let’s just say you’ll need more than a light jacket. We’re talking brutal cold, with temperatures plummeting way below freezing.

The Polar Bear: King of the Arctic

Enter the polar bear, the undisputed apex predator of this icy domain. These magnificent creatures are built for survival in this challenging environment. They are the top of the food chain, primarily feasting on seals (unlucky for the seals, but necessary for the ecosystem). Think of them as the furry kings and queens of the Arctic, ruling their icy kingdom with a powerful paw and a keen sense of smell. They play a vital role in maintaining the balance of the Arctic ecosystem.

Arctic Challenges: It’s Not Always Smooth Sailing

But life in the Arctic isn’t all sunshine and seal snacks. Polar bears face a whole host of challenges that make survival a constant struggle. Besides the obvious – the blistering cold that could freeze your eyelashes in seconds – they have to contend with limited food sources. Seals are their primary prey, but finding them can be tough, especially when sea ice is scarce. This leads to long periods without food. Imagine trying to survive in a place where your favorite pizza joint only opens once a month, and you have to fight off blizzards to get there. It is not a simple life in the Arctic, so let’s think what we can do!

A Home Away From Home: The Polar Bear Habitat at the Pittsburgh Zoo

Okay, so you’re probably thinking, “A zoo? How can that possibly be a good home for a polar bear?” And that’s a fair question! But trust me, the folks at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium have put some serious thought (and a whole lot of resources) into making their polar bear enclosure a pretty sweet pad. We’re talking next-level animal real estate here.

Digging into the Details: Size, Water, and Toys Galore!

First off, this isn’t just some concrete box. We’re talking about a spacious habitat, designed with polar bear needs in mind. Think of it as a luxury Arctic condo, complete with all the amenities. And speaking of amenities, the water features are a big deal. Polar bears, as you might guess, love to swim! This enclosure has a massive pool that allows these magnificent creatures to dive, frolic, and generally have a whale (or seal?) of a time.

But it’s not just about the size and the swimming; it’s also about keeping things interesting. That’s where enrichment elements come in. These are basically polar bear toys and puzzles designed to stimulate their minds and encourage natural behaviors. Think things like:

• Giant ice blocks to play with and chew on.
• Durable balls that they can bat around.
• Simulated ice ledges and rockwork.

It’s like Christmas morning every day for these bears, except instead of socks, they get a new way to flex their apex predator muscles (and their adorable clumsiness).

Mimicking Mother Nature: Arctic Realness

The whole point of this enclosure is to make it feel as much like the Arctic as possible – without the whole “melting ice caps” part, of course. So, how do they do it? It’s all about creating a naturalistic environment with features that resemble the polar bear’s home turf. That means:

• Carefully designed rockwork that mimics the icy landscapes of the Arctic.
• Planting native vegetation (or as close as you can get in Pittsburgh).
• Regulated sunlight and seasonal cycles to mimic what polar bears experience in the wild.

It’s not a perfect replica, of course. You can’t exactly import a blizzard to Pittsburgh every day (much to the chagrin of some residents, probably). But the goal is to create an environment that’s both stimulating and comfortable for the bears.

Animal Welfare First: Happy Bears, Happy Life

Speaking of comfortable, animal welfare is the name of the game here. The zoo takes this super seriously, ensuring that the bears have everything they need to thrive. That means:

• Plenty of space to roam and explore.
• Temperature control to keep them cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
• A clean and hygienic environment to prevent the spread of disease.
• Access to top-notch veterinary care at all times.

Basically, these bears are living the high life, complete with regular check-ups and a team of dedicated caregivers who are constantly monitoring their health and well-being.

A Window to the Arctic: Educating and Inspiring Visitors

And finally, let’s not forget about the visitors! The polar bear exhibit isn’t just about the bears; it’s also about education. The enclosure is designed to allow visitors to get a fantastic view of these incredible animals, all while learning about their natural habitat and the challenges they face in the wild. The exhibit incorporates:

• Large viewing windows that allow visitors to get up close and personal with the bears.
• Interactive displays that teach about polar bear biology and conservation.
• Educational signage that highlights the threats facing polar bears in the wild.

So, while you’re marveling at these majestic creatures, you’re also learning about the importance of conservation and what you can do to help protect them. It’s a win-win!

Polar Bear Behavior and Adaptations: A Closer Look

Ever wonder what a polar bear actually does all day? They’re not just lounging around looking cuddly (though they are pretty darn cute!). Let’s dive into the everyday life of these Arctic adventurers, both in the wild and at the Pittsburgh Zoo.

Common Polar Bear Behaviors:

Polar bears are fascinating creatures with a diverse range of behaviors, essential for survival in their harsh environment:

• Swimming: These bears are semi-aquatic mammals, spending a considerable amount of time in the water. They can swim for extended periods, often several hours at a stretch, using their large paws as paddles and their hind legs as rudders. Imagine doing that in freezing water! They’re built for it, though.

• Hunting: As apex predators, hunting is a crucial aspect of their survival. Their primary prey consists of seals, which they hunt using various strategies. These include waiting near breathing holes in the ice, ambushing seals on land, or stalking them near the water’s edge.

• Playing: Polar bears, especially younger ones, engage in playful activities that help develop their physical and social skills. These activities include wrestling, chasing, and even sliding on their bellies across the ice. It’s like a giant, fluffy, Arctic playground! They even play with objects like ice chunks and toys provided in zoos, which is super entertaining to watch.

The Zoo Environment: Encouraging Natural Behaviors

The Pittsburgh Zoo recognizes the importance of facilitating these natural behaviors and has designed its polar bear exhibit to encourage their inner-polar-bear to come out. How, you ask?

• Enrichment Activities: The zoo provides various enrichment activities that stimulate the polar bears’ minds and bodies. This includes introducing novel objects, such as large balls or puzzle feeders, that encourage exploration and problem-solving. These activities not only prevent boredom but also promote physical activity and mental stimulation, mimicking the challenges they face in the wild.

• Feeding Strategies: The zoo mimics natural feeding patterns by offering food in ways that require the bears to work for it. For example, they might hide food in the enclosure or freeze fish in large blocks of ice, challenging the bears to use their strength and ingenuity to obtain their meals. This encourages natural foraging behaviors and prevents food from being too easily accessible, promoting both physical and mental engagement.

Physical Adaptations: Built for the Arctic

Polar bears aren’t just cute; they’re engineered for survival in some of the most brutal conditions on Earth!

• Fur: Let’s start with the most obvious: their fur. Polar bear fur isn’t just for show; it’s a high-tech insulation system. It consists of a dense undercoat of short, tightly packed hairs that trap air and provide insulation against the cold. On top of this is a layer of longer, translucent guard hairs that help shed water and keep the undercoat dry. It also provides camouflage in the snowy environment, helping them blend in while hunting prey.

• Paws: Ever tried walking on ice? It’s not easy! Polar bears have massive paws covered in rough pads and non-slip papillae that provide excellent traction on ice and snow. Their paws are also broad, acting like snowshoes to distribute their weight and prevent them from sinking into the snow. Plus, they have non-retractable claws for extra grip.

• Body Size and Fat Reserves: These bears are big – like, really big. This is no accident! Their large body size reduces their surface area to volume ratio, minimizing heat loss. They also have a thick layer of blubber (fat) under their skin, which acts as an additional layer of insulation and a vital energy reserve during times when food is scarce. This blubber layer can be up to 4.5 inches thick and provides crucial insulation against the frigid Arctic temperatures.

So, the next time you see a polar bear, remember, you’re not just looking at a fluffy bear. You’re looking at a marvel of adaptation, perfectly designed to thrive in one of the harshest environments on Earth!

Nourishment and Care: Diet and Welfare at the Zoo

Okay, let’s talk about what it takes to keep a polar bear happy and healthy when it’s not out on the Arctic ice. It’s a lot more than just throwing a fish their way, trust me! We’re diving into the delicious world of polar bear diets and the TLC they get at the Pittsburgh Zoo.

A Polar Bear’s Plate: From Seals to…What Exactly?

In the wild, polar bears are apex predators, which basically means they’re the kings and queens of their icy domain. Their natural diet revolves heavily around seals. Picture this: they patiently wait by breathing holes in the ice, and bam! Seal surprise! They also snack on fish, and sometimes even the odd bird or egg if they’re feeling adventurous. That high-fat diet is essential for surviving those frigid temperatures. Think of it as their built-in central heating system!

Zoo Grub: Replicating the Arctic Buffet

So how do you bring that Arctic buffet to Pittsburgh? Well, the zoo nutritionists are like culinary geniuses for wildlife. They craft a diet that’s balanced and packed with all the good stuff polar bears need. While they can’t exactly hunt seals in the exhibit, they do get a varied menu, including:

• Fish: Different types of fish provide essential nutrients. Think salmon, herring, and other yummy options.
• Meat-Based Protein: Providing similar nutrition and fat content to what they would eat in the wild
• Fruits and Vegetables: Yep, even polar bears get their greens (and reds, and oranges)! These provide vitamins and fiber.
• Supplements: To ensure they are getting all the minerals and vitamins needed.

It’s all carefully measured to mimic the nutritional profile of their wild diet, while also preventing them from getting too tubby.

The Royal Treatment: Veterinary Care and Enrichment

The care doesn’t stop at mealtime. The polar bears at the Pittsburgh Zoo get the absolute royal treatment.

Veterinary Care:

Regular check-ups are crucial, just like your annual doctor’s visit. These include:

• Physical exams: Checking everything from their teeth to their paws.
• Vaccinations: Keeping them protected from diseases.
• Preventative measures: Addressing any potential health issues before they become serious.

Enrichment Activities:

Keeping these intelligent creatures mentally stimulated is super important. Think of it as giving their brains a workout:

• Toys: Big, durable toys that they can push around and play with.
• Puzzles: Problem-solving activities to challenge their minds.
• Social Interaction: Time for socializing with other bears, if applicable.
• Novel Scents: Introducing new smells to pique their interest.

Welfare Standards:

The zoo has very strict standards for space, hygiene, and environmental control. They work hard to make sure that the polar bear enclosure:

• Is large enough for them to move around comfortably.
• Is kept clean and sanitary.
• Maintains the correct temperature and humidity levels.

It’s all about creating an environment where they can thrive.

In short, the polar bears at the Pittsburgh Zoo aren’t just surviving; they’re living the good life, with a balanced diet, top-notch medical care, and plenty of ways to keep their minds and bodies active. And that’s what it’s all about, folks!

The Plight of the Polar Bear: Endangered Species and Threats

Alright, folks, let’s dive into a chilling topic – and no, I’m not talking about the weather in Pittsburgh during a Steelers game. I’m talking about the polar bears! These majestic creatures, kings and queens of the Arctic, are facing some seriously tough times. They’re officially listed as an endangered species, which is basically the wildlife equivalent of getting a “needs improvement” on your annual review, only way, way more serious.

So, why are these icy icons in such hot water? Well, it’s a perfect storm of unfortunate events, really. Let’s break down the biggest threats that these beautiful bears are up against.

Habitat Loss: The Ice is Melting!

Picture this: you’re a polar bear, and your entire life revolves around sea ice. It’s your hunting ground, your highway, and your resting place. But what happens when that ice starts to disappear? That’s exactly what’s happening due to climate change, and it’s the biggest problem polar bears face.

Melting sea ice means they have less time to hunt for seals (their favorite snack!), longer swims between ice floes (which can be exhausting, even for a polar bear!), and fewer places to raise their adorable cubs. It’s like someone’s slowly taking away their furniture and telling them to figure it out. Not cool, nature, not cool.

Hunting: A Tragic Tradition

Now, you might be thinking, “Wait, people still hunt polar bears?” Sadly, the answer is yes. While it’s regulated in some areas, legal and illegal hunting still poses a threat to certain polar bear populations. It’s a complex issue, often intertwined with the traditions and livelihoods of indigenous communities in the Arctic. However, unsustainable hunting practices can push already vulnerable populations closer to the edge.

Pollution: Toxic Takeout

Imagine ordering a pizza, only to find out it’s laced with toxins. Gross, right? Well, that’s kind of what’s happening to polar bears through pollution. Persistent organic pollutants (POPs), like pesticides and industrial chemicals, accumulate in the Arctic food chain. When polar bears chow down on seals, they also ingest these toxins, which can mess with their immune systems, reproductive capabilities, and overall health. It’s like ordering a toxic takeout that’s slowly poisoning them from the inside out.

Climate Change: The Overarching Threat

We’ve already touched on this, but it’s so important it deserves its own bolded, italicized, and underlined mention: Climate Change is the primary driver of habitat loss for polar bears. It’s not just about the ice melting; it’s about the entire Arctic ecosystem changing. Warmer temperatures, altered ocean currents, and shifting prey patterns all contribute to the challenges polar bears face. It’s like throwing a wrench into their entire way of life.

The Urgency of Conservation

The bottom line? Polar bears are in trouble, and we need to act fast. Their future hangs in the balance, and it’s up to us to do what we can to help. We need to reduce our carbon footprint, support sustainable practices, and advocate for policies that protect the Arctic environment. It’s time to stop the melt-down and give these incredible creatures a fighting chance. The time to act is now!

Breeding Bears: More Than Just a Polar-Sized Playdate!

The Pittsburgh Zoo isn’t just a fun day out; it’s a conservation powerhouse, especially when it comes to our frosty friends, the polar bears. The zoo actively participates in polar bear conservation on several fronts, and you can often find its animal care team working tirelessly to protect these incredible creatures.

One of the most important ways the zoo contributes is through participation in carefully managed breeding programs. You might be thinking, “Aww, how cute, they’re playing matchmaker!” and while there’s an element of that, it’s much more strategic. The goal of these programs is to maintain a healthy and genetically diverse population of polar bears in captivity. This serves as a safeguard against the declining numbers in the wild.

Breeding polar bears isn’t as simple as dimming the lights and playing some Barry White. There are tons of factors to consider! It’s a complex process involving:

• Careful genetic analysis.
• Consideration of the bears’ individual personalities.
• Health and well-being.

Successes include births of cubs (which are always a huge win for the program and hearts of everyone involved), and the challenges? Well, sometimes, even the most charming polar bear bachelor just isn’t interested! It’s all part of nature, folks.

Team Arctic: Zoo Collabs for Conservation

But the zoo doesn’t go it alone! They know that tackling a problem as big as polar bear conservation requires teamwork, so they actively collaborate with other zoos, aquariums, and conservation organizations around the globe.

These collaborations take on many forms, from:

• Sharing knowledge and resources
• Participating in joint research projects.
• Contributing to on-the-ground conservation efforts in the Arctic.

For example, the zoo might partner with a research team studying the effects of climate change on polar bear habitats, or contribute funding to organizations working to reduce human-wildlife conflict in areas where polar bears and people overlap.

The impact of these collaborations is HUGE! By working together, these organizations can pool their expertise, resources, and influence to achieve far more than they could individually. It’s like assembling the Avengers, but for polar bears! Through these collaborative efforts, the Pittsburgh Zoo is making a real difference in the fight to protect these majestic creatures and ensure their survival for generations to come.

Education and Awareness: Inspiring Action Through Knowledge

Okay, folks, let’s talk about something super important: spreading the word! It’s one thing to have an awesome polar bear exhibit, but it’s a whole other level when you use it to inspire people. The Pittsburgh Zoo doesn’t just let you watch these incredible animals; they want you to learn about them too and understand the need for their conservation. How do they do it? Well, let’s dive in!

Decoding the Zoo’s Cool School: Educational Programs

First off, imagine wandering around the polar bear habitat with a guide who knows everything. That’s the magic of the zoo’s guided tours! They’re not just pointing at a bear and saying, “Look, a bear!”. They’re sharing amazing facts, explaining behaviors, and answering all your burning questions like, “Do polar bears get brain freeze from eating snow?”.

Then there are the interactive exhibits. These aren’t your grandma’s static museum displays. We’re talking touch screens, games, and maybe even some virtual reality experiences that put you right in the Arctic (without the frostbite, thankfully). It’s a hands-on way to get up close and personal with the issues facing polar bears.

And let’s not forget the educational talks! Experts step up to share their knowledge, often with cool visuals and compelling stories. They break down complex topics like climate change and habitat loss into bite-sized pieces that everyone can understand.

Awareness: From “Aww, Cute!” to “Wow, We Need to Act!”

All these programs have one big goal: to turn that initial “Aww, cute!” reaction into a powerful understanding of the challenges polar bears face. They make you realize that these magnificent creatures are in trouble. By connecting visitors emotionally and intellectually, the zoo sparks a desire to help. The end result? Visitors are not just amused, they are moved to act.

You’ve Got the Knowledge, Now Unleash Your Inner Eco-Warrior

So, you’ve learned all about polar bears. What can you do? The Pittsburgh Zoo doesn’t leave you hanging. They offer practical suggestions, turning information into action.

• Reduce Your Carbon Footprint: This sounds intimidating, but it’s easier than you think. Simple things like turning off lights, using public transport, or choosing energy-efficient appliances can make a difference. Think of it as voting with your actions!
• Support Conservation Organizations: There are tons of organizations dedicated to protecting polar bears and their habitat. Whether you donate money, volunteer your time, or simply spread the word, every little bit helps.
• Spread Awareness: Talk to your friends, family, and coworkers about what you’ve learned. Share articles on social media. Be a polar bear ambassador! The more people who know about the challenges these animals face, the more likely we are to make a change.

Behind the Scenes: The Unsung Heroes of the Polar Bear Exhibit

Ever wonder who’s really keeping those majestic, fluffy giants happy and healthy at the Pittsburgh Zoo? It’s not just magic, folks; it’s the incredible team of researchers and animal care staff who pour their hearts and souls into ensuring these Arctic ambassadors thrive. These dedicated individuals work tirelessly, often behind the scenes, to provide the best possible care for the polar bears. They’re like the polar bears’ personal entourage, only instead of paparazzi, they’re armed with enrichment toys and scientific data!

A Day in the Life: Stories from the Trenches (or, Rather, the Tundra!)

Let’s pull back the curtain and hear from some of these unsung heroes. Imagine starting your day by prepping a gourmet (for a polar bear, anyway) breakfast of fish and blubber. Then, it’s time for some playtime! The animal care staff designs and implements enrichment activities to stimulate the bears’ minds and bodies. Think giant ice blocks with hidden treats, or durable toys that can withstand a polar bear’s enthusiastic chompers.

But it’s not all fun and games (although, let’s be honest, a lot of it is!). These keepers are also keen observers, meticulously monitoring the bears’ behavior, appetite, and overall health. Any changes, no matter how subtle, are noted and addressed. They’re the polar bear whisperers, able to understand their needs and ensure their wellbeing. Their dedication is astounding and it is a big part of animal Welfare.

Science in Action: Research Projects at the Zoo

The Pittsburgh Zoo isn’t just about showcasing these amazing animals; it’s also about advancing our understanding of them. Researchers at the zoo conduct vital studies on polar bear behavior, physiology, and conservation. For example, scientists could be studying the effectiveness of different enrichment strategies or monitoring hormone levels to assess reproductive health.

This research has real-world implications for polar bear conservation efforts in the wild. By learning more about these animals in a controlled environment, we can better protect them in their natural habitat. The zoo is a valuable partner in the greater movement for animal conservation. So next time you visit the polar bear exhibit, remember to spare a thought (and maybe a wave!) for the dedicated researchers and animal care staff who are making a real difference in the lives of these incredible creatures.

PPG Aquarium’s Support: A Unified Conservation Front

Alright, picture this: you’ve got the amazing polar bear exhibit at the Pittsburgh Zoo, right? But did you know that their finned and scaled friends over at the PPG Aquarium are totally in on the polar bear support squad? It’s true! The PPG Aquarium isn’t just about showcasing the wonders of marine life; they’re actually a crucial part of the zoo’s overall conservation mission, especially when it comes to our fluffy Arctic buddies.

Think of it as a superhero team-up, but instead of capes, they’re sporting wetsuits and khaki uniforms. The aquarium lends its expertise and resources to enhance the zoo’s polar bear conservation efforts in some seriously cool ways.

🌊 Shared Initiatives: Making Waves Together 🌊

So, how does this team-up actually work? Well, they often collaborate on educational programs designed to connect the dots between the Arctic and our oceans. For example, they might host joint events that highlight how climate change impacts both polar bears and marine ecosystems. Think interactive exhibits showcasing the interconnectedness of these environments, or workshops that teach kids (and adults!) about reducing plastic pollution to protect both sea turtles and polar bear habitats. It’s all about showing how everything is connected, from the icy Arctic to the coral reefs!

Why Collaboration is Key

Here’s the thing: conservation is a massive undertaking, and no single organization can do it all alone. By teaming up, the Pittsburgh Zoo and the PPG Aquarium can pool their knowledge, resources, and reach to make a bigger impact. The Aquarium’s expertise in marine biology, for instance, can inform the zoo’s understanding of the broader ecological context that affects polar bears. Plus, joining forces allows them to reach a wider audience and spread the message about the importance of protecting our planet for all its creatures, big and small. Now, that’s what I call a win-win!

Accreditation and Ethical Standards: A Commitment to Excellence

Ever wonder how zoos prove they’re not just putting animals on display, but actually invested in their well-being? It all boils down to accreditation and a set of seriously important ethical standards! Think of it like this: it’s the zoo’s way of saying, “Hey, we’re not winging it here. We’re legit!” For the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, and many top-notch zoos worldwide, this seal of approval often comes from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Getting AZA accreditation is no walk in the park, trust me. It’s like passing the ultimate zoo test!

What Does Accreditation Really Mean?

Well, accreditation, like the AZA, isn’t just a fancy sticker on the wall. It means the zoo has voluntarily undergone a rigorous inspection and meets exacting standards for animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, education, and safety. It’s basically a super-thorough report card. This process involves everything from habitat design and nutrition to enrichment programs and staff training. It ensures that the animals are living their best lives!

Standards Above and Beyond

The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium goes above and beyond to meet these standards, particularly in the three key areas:

• Animal Welfare: This means providing habitats that mimic natural environments as closely as possible, ensuring proper social groupings, and providing opportunities for animals to engage in natural behaviors. Think puzzle feeders for the polar bears to keep them mentally stimulated or sprawling spaces that allow natural roaming.

• Veterinary Care: A top-notch veterinary team provides preventative care, diagnoses and treats illnesses, and ensures the animals are healthy and comfortable. It’s like having a team of animal doctors on speed dial (or should we say, speed paw?).

• Ethical Practices: This covers everything from responsible breeding programs to conservation efforts in the wild. The zoo commits to making decisions that prioritize the well-being of the animals and the preservation of their species.

Committed to the Best

At the end of the day, the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium’s accreditation and adherence to ethical standards demonstrate a commitment to providing the best possible care for its animals. It’s a promise to continuously improve and prioritize the well-being of every creature, great and small. And that’s something we can all feel good about!

So, next time you’re at the Pittsburgh Zoo, make sure to swing by the polar bear exhibit. You might just catch her having a blast in her pool, reminding us all of the beauty and importance of these amazing creatures. And who knows, maybe you’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for the Arctic!