Party for Polar Bears

Polar bear twins Astra and Laerke, both 3-years-old, received wellness exams in March (on different days). The exams were the first time the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium veterinarians and keepers could examine the sisters under anesthesia since they first arrived in June 2023. The bears were anesthetized in their behind-the-scenes bedrooms and then carefully moved to the zoo’s animal hospital, where the healthcare team could perform thorough physical exams. While the bears were under anesthesia, their vitals were monitored…

It takes many tons of food to feed the more than 12,000 animals that live at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. For example, zoo staff prepare 133,000 pounds of seafood per year. That’s one of many fascinating facts about feeding an entire zoo and aquarium. Asian Forest Sanctuary Most food consumed in a day:  In the Asian Forest Sanctuary, where guests can see animals like Sumatran tigers, lar gibbons, and siamangs, the Malayan tapirs eat the most. Tapirs Baku and…

Love is in the air at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium! There’s no concrete way to measure an animal’s love, but many animals at the zoo are coupled up or longtime companions and enjoy each other’s company. Polar Bears Galentine’s Day, a celebration of female friendship, is unofficially celebrated on Feb. 13, and it’s perfect for polar bear twin sisters Astra and Laerke! Keepers say the three-year-old sisters enjoy spending time together and are often seen wrestling each other, and at other…