The Detroit Zoo unveiled its latest addition, a 22-year-old polar bear named Haley. Originating from Memphis Zoo, Haley arrived in Detroit to participate in a plan recommended by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to promote genetically diversified and sustainable polar bear populations in human care.
The Arctic Ring of Life exhibition at the Detroit Zoo, touted as one of the largest polar bear habitats in North America, is now Haley's new stomping ground. According to FOX 2 Detroit, this extensive 4-acre habitat features an immersive 70-foot-long viewing glass tunnel, where visitors can get a close-up look at the polar bears, an exploration station, and an ice cave. The exhibit also houses rescued southern sea otters Finn, Kit, and Monte, deemed non-releasable in the wild, and found a home in the zoo's facility.
"Haley is such a special and inquisitive bear," Mike Murray, vice president of life sciences for the Detroit Zoological Society, stated, as per MLive. The zoo hopes Haley will serve as an ambassador for polar bears in the wild, which are currently facing threats from climate change, such as melting sea ice and pollution.
Visitors eager to glimpse the zoo's new residents should note the visiting hours. The Detroit Zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through March 31, with hours extending from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. starting April 1. While Haley acclimates to her new surroundings, there might be times when she prefers privacy off-exhibit, but she's generally ready to explore and acquaint herself with zoogoers.
