NOVI, MI - We are getting our first look at Haley, the Detroit Zoo’s newest polar bear.
The 22-year old, who is named after the comet, was born on November 15, 2002. She has lived at the Memphis Zoo since she was 4.
Her move to the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak was recommended by experts from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to help ensure healthy, genetically diverse and sustainable polar bear populations in human care.
The Detroit Zoo is now home to three polar bears: Nuke, a 20-year-old male, and Suka, a 12-year-old female.
Zoo officials say after settling in behind the scenes, Haley is ready to explore her public-facing habitat in the Arctic Ring of Life, which is one of the largest polar bear habitats in North America.
“Haley is such a special and inquisitive bear,” said Mike Murray, VP of life sciences for the Detroit Zoological Society. “We know Haley will be a terrific ambassador for her species, which faces threats from melting sea ice, climate change and pollution in the wild. We can’t wait for our guests to meet her.”
The Arctic Ring of Life features 4 acres of outdoor and indoor spaces including a 70-foot-long glass tunnel, exploration station and ice cave.
The habitat is also home to rescued southern sea otters, Finn, Kit and Monte.
The Detroit Zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through March 31. Starting April 1, the Zoo will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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