The Detroit Zoo - Bärle's Journey Begins

Bärle's Journey Begins

The six polar bears recently confiscated from the Suarez Brothers Circus in Puerto Rico, were shipped on November 19 via Federal Express to three U.S. zoos accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA). The six bears, accompanied by bear experts and veterinarians, left San Juan on the 10:20 am FedEx transport, heading to the FedEx Express hub in Memphis, Tennessee. From there, the bears were separated and taken on flights to their final destinations.

"It is gratifying to know that the bears are in their new homes, getting proper veterinary attention and professional care," commented Sydney Butler, executive director of the AZA. "These bears have been in some wretched conditions, and we are proud to help place them in accredited zoological facilities."
The AZA's Bear TAG also worked with USFWS to find an appropriate home for a female polar bear in March 2002. "Alaska" was confiscated from this same circus due to permit irregularities. She was moved to her new home at The Baltimore Zoo and has adjusted very well. Federal wildlife agents confiscated the remaining six polar bears on 5 November 2002, in Yabucoa, Puerto Rico.

Barle arrived Fed Ex.

The Detroit Zoo has taken the female bear, "Bärle," while the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium in Tacoma, WA will house two males and the remaining three male polar bears will go to the North Carolina Zoo, in Asheboro, N.C.

The bears had been performing in the circus, but a recent U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) investigation uncovered violations of the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which resulted in their confiscation. The AZA Bear Taxon Advisory Group (TAG), a cooperative team of bear experts from AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums, was asked by USFWS to determine placement in accredited zoological facilities, and to arrange transport from Puerto Rico to these facilities.

Else Poulsen, Mammel Head Zookeeper, greets Barle at the airport.

"Awesome, awesome, awesome effort on everyone's part," stated Diana Weinhardt, curator of large mammals at the Houston Zoo and chair of the AZA Bear TAG. "We couldn't have managed this operation without the expertise of so many people – including PETA for bringing this to our attention, and the Louisville Zoo, as they took in a lone male polar bear from North Carolina Zoo in order to make room for the 3 confiscated bears."

"We think it is great that the Houston Zoo has been a leader in this major animal welfare issue, by allowing and providing the support for Diana to apply her time, skills and expertise," stated Mark Reed, executive director of the Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita, Kansas and president of AZA. "I believe because of her efforts and professionalism, we have the greatest chance of having this work out extremely well for the polar bears, and all other vested parties, as she understands the underlying issues."

And now it's time for a well-deserved nap in her new home.

The bears were transported via Federal Express. FedEx Express, the world's largest express transportation company, donated the use of its express transportation network and its expertise in handling both heavy and delicate cargo.

"Bärle" will remain in quarantine for another month, and will then, slowly be introduced to the other polar bears. Ultimately, Barle will be able to swim, play and thrive in the Arctic Ring of Life.

[ Back ]