Happy Fat Bear Week From Denver Zoo's Favorite Fat Bear! 🐻
Channel: Denver Zoo
Date: 2023-10-11

#FatBearWeek is coming to a close and we wanted to celebrate our favorite fat bear, Tundra! As Katmai National Park & Preserve will tell you, a fat bear is a healthy bear, and Tundra is looking perfectly plump these days. In the wild, fattening up as winter approaches ensures that bears are able to survive the long, cold months. Just like wild bears, Tundra will go into a deep sleep known as torpor where her heart and breathing rates will decrease along with her body temperature. Tundra is naturally inclined to bulk up right now, and we’re happy to encourage her natural behaviors! Our animal care specialists recently treated her to whole salmon enrichment, a special meal that's rich in fat and helps her pack on the pounds. 

In addition to getting chonkier, Tundra is also getting sleepier this time of year. She has started to spend more time in the den she made for winter, so guests may see less and less of her. From tasty treats to a cozy spot to dig a den, we’re happy to provide her with everything she needs to thrive here at Denver Zoo! 🐻   

Video Credit: Assistant Curator of Carnivores Katelyn S. and Animal Care Specialist Hilary W., Thea M. and Kika H.