Kodiak Brown Bear: Giants of the Forest
The Kodiak brown bear, one of the largest bear subspecies, is an impressive yet gentle giant. In zoos, these bears are given large, naturalistic enclosures with wooded areas, pools, and rocky platforms to roam, climb, and swim. The habitat is designed to mimic the Alaskan wilderness, allowing the bears to express their natural behaviors like foraging, digging, and cooling off in the water.
Enrichment activities are vital for these intelligent creatures. Zookeepers hide food in logs or scatter it around the enclosure to encourage the bears to "hunt" and explore their environment. Seasonal changes, such as providing ice blocks in summer or extra food before “winter rest,” help simulate their natural cycles.
Zoos also serve as educational hubs, teaching visitors about the threats facing wild bear populations, such as habitat loss and climate change. Seeing a Kodiak bear up close fosters respect for these magnificent animals and inspires efforts to protect their natural habitats.