Two male grizzly bear cubs, Turner and Fitz, have taken their first steps into the public eye at the Calgary Zoo, following a turbulent start to life. Orphaned last autumn near Diamond Valley, approximately 70 kilometres south of Calgary, the cubs were rescued after their mother was tragically killed during a human-wildlife encounter. Now, they are finding their footing under the expert care of the dedicated staff at the zoo.
A Safe Haven for Orphaned Cubs
The Wilder Institute Calgary Zoo has a long-standing reputation for caring for grizzly bears, a commitment that dates back to 1938. Jax Hogard, the animal care supervisor, expressed the zoo’s readiness to provide a sanctuary for the cubs. “They needed a quick home while we figured out where they would go next, and it just so happened that we ended up having the space for them,” Hogard remarked. The decision was made for the cubs to remain at the zoo, where they could receive the specialised care they require.
Turner and Fitz are distinct in appearance and temperament. Turner boasts a darker, almost black coat, and is the larger of the two, weighing in at approximately 116 kilograms (256 pounds). Fitz, on the other hand, has a lighter coat with a hint of silver and weighs around 110 kilograms (243 pounds). Each cub consumes about five kilograms (11 pounds) of food daily, which is aligned with their developmental needs.
Growing Strong and Confident
“They’re doing phenomenally,” Hogard stated, noting the cubs’ impressive health and vibrant coats. After shedding their winter fur, they now sport the lush, shiny pelage typical of young grizzlies. “They’ve got that beautiful grizzled highlight in their hair, and they’re perfect,” he added, highlighting the robust condition of the bears.
This week marks a significant milestone for Turner and Fitz, as they have been granted access to their new outdoor habitat after spending the winter in a behind-the-scenes area of the zoo. During this time, the cubs were allowed to engage in natural behaviours, which included the option to hibernate. “We gave them the option to go to sleep if they wanted to, but they did stay up for the majority of the winter,” Hogard explained. The aim was to build their confidence in their new environment, ensuring it was safe and conducive to their needs for digging, climbing, and playing.
Tailored Environments for Growing Bears
The zoo offers two habitats specifically designed for bears, with the cubs currently residing in the smaller one. As they continue to grow, there are plans to transition them to the larger area, providing enrichment and a diverse environment. “It’s just to give them small steps to larger spaces for enrichment and a change of scenery as they grow,” Hogard noted.
Zoo staff have gone to great lengths to adapt the habitat to suit the cubs’ playful nature, rearranging elements such as rocks and logs to create a safe and stimulating environment. This thoughtful preparation is crucial for the cubs’ development and wellbeing.
Why it Matters
The arrival of Turner and Fitz at the Calgary Zoo serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between wildlife and human activity. Their story underscores the importance of wildlife conservation efforts and the need for responsible human behaviour in natural habitats. As we confront increasing human-wildlife encounters, the careful nurturing of these cubs in a controlled environment not only gives them a second chance at life but also educates the public on the challenges faced by wildlife in the wild. Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of both bears and humans is a shared responsibility, crucial for the preservation of our natural ecosystems.
