The Museum of Life and Science has a new member of its community that’s sure to draw attention from visitors.

The museum announced last week that a rescued, nine-month-old female black bear is joining its Durham campus and black bear habitat.

According to a release announcing the bear’s arrival, the cub was rescued outside of Asheville but showed behavior that would not indicate she would survive in the wild. Since she was designated as “unsuitable for release,” the N.C. Wildlife Resource Commission turned the bear over the Museum of Life and Science, where she’s been recovering from some health issues.

“We are excited for the opportunity to rescue this bear from a difficult situation and try to give her a new home. We hope she can thrive and enjoy her life in a safe environment among other bears,” said Sherry Samuels, Director of Animal Care at the Museum.

A new rescued black bear will soon be joining the black bear habitat visible to museum visitors. (Photo via the Museum of Life and Science.)

The 60-pound bear arrived in Durham at the end of September, according to the museum. Since then, the animal has been quarantining and getting visits from a tam of veterinarians to help her adjust to the new environment.

Samuels said as the young bear continues to work through some health challenges and introductions, she’ll soon be able to freely roam the habitat with the Museum’s three adult bears: Mimi, Gus and Yona.

“This little bear has health challenges we are working to solve and manage throughout the introduction period and beyond. We’re seeing progress and hope this continues as she adjusts to her new home,” Samuels said. “We’re excited to be at this next step. She is interacting as she should with the other bears, and visitors can hope to see her in the bear habitat soon.”

According to the Museum of Life and Science, a naming contest with the public will soon be held for the new bear.

 

Photo via the Museum of Life and Sciences.

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