In a momentous event at Potawatomi Zoo, Muniri, an eight-year-old, 200-pound male Andean bear, made his first public appearance, drawing a crowd and sparking excitement among visitors. The bear, known for his distinctive colors and unique face, was seen actively exploring his new surroundings, munching on berries from a nearby mulberry tree, and enjoying a diet of bananas and apples. This significant arrival marks a new chapter for the zoo, which has temporarily housed Muniri in the former lion exhibit while final touches are added to the new bear habitat and concession lodge.
Muniri’s arrival at the zoo was not initially planned for this time of year, but as Josh Sisk, executive director of the zoo, stated, "in the zoo world, things sometimes happen quickly." The Andean bear, who was recommended by the Andean Bear Species Survival Plan, a cooperative population management program through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, is a key addition to the Potawatomi Zoo’s conservation efforts. Andean bears, also known as spectacled bears, are native to the Andean mountains of South America and are the last species in the short-faced bear genus, considered vulnerable to extinction due to habitat loss and poaching. This makes Muniri’s presence at the zoo not just a public attraction, but also a crucial part of a larger conservation story.
Muniri, the Andean Bear Makes His Debut at Potawatomi Zoo
South Bend’s Potawatomi Zoo is buzzing with excitement as Muniri, a male Andean bear, made his grand public appearance on Wednesday. The 8-year-old, 200-pound bear has already begun drawing crowds, with locals and tourists alike eager to catch a glimpse of the zoo’s newest resident.
Muniri: The Crowd-Puller
Blake and Morgan Smith of Granger, along with their young daughter Kate, were among the early visitors. Kate was particularly fascinated by Muniri’s fondness for bananas and apples, treats provided by the zoo keeper. Visitors were also delighted by his curiosity and activity as he explored his new surroundings and munched on berries from a nearby mulberry tree.
Unexpected Arrival
Muniri is temporarily residing in the zoo’s previous lion exhibit, while work on the new bear habitat and concession lodge is being completed. Josh Sisk, the zoo’s executive director, revealed, "We weren’t planning to have Muniri move to the zoo until later this year, but circumstances changed, and we were able to bring him here sooner.” Muniri’s arrival was recommended by the Andean Bear Species Survival Plan, a cooperative population management program of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
A Story of Conservation
The Andean bear, also known as the spectacled bear, is native to the Andean mountains of South America. They are the last species in the short-faced bear genus and are considered vulnerable due to habitat loss and poaching. “Having a species of bear that most people don’t know about is a great opportunity for us to tell an important conservation story,” Sisk said.
An Active Winter Ahead
Kristina Barroso Burrell, the zoo’s manager of marketing and communications, revealed that Muniri had been in quarantine at the zoo for about a month and should move to his new home in time for the winter holiday season’s Gift of Lights event. Unlike many bears, Andean bears do not hibernate, so visitors can look forward to seeing Muniri active throughout the winter.
Future Plans
With only about 60 Andean bears in the United States, the zoo hopes to ultimately breed cubs to help preserve the species. In addition to the bear exhibit, the zoo also opened a new lion exhibit this summer, following the unveiling of a giraffe habitat in 2022. A new habitat for the zoo’s tigers is being planned for 2025.
Takeaways
Muniri’s arrival highlights the zoo’s commitment to conservation and educating the public about lesser-known species. His presence offers a unique opportunity to learn about Andean bears and the challenges they face in the wild. As the zoo continues to expand its exhibits, it’s clear that Potawatomi Zoo is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
