Every year on February 27, the world marks International Polar Bear Day. The holiday was established by Polar Bears International (PBI), a non-profit international organization. Its main goal is to draw attention to the need to preserve polar bear populations and protect their habitat, which is being destroyed by global warming.
The polar bear is a symbol of resilience and, at the same time, the vulnerability of nature. By protecting their home, we protect the future of our entire planet. May this day become a reason to take at least one small step in support of the environment. Each of us can contribute to preserving the habitat of these Arctic giants: replacing coal and oil with solar and wind energy, switching to electric cars and bicycles, reducing unnecessary plastic use, preventing oil spills, and more.
For Mykolaiv Zoo, polar bears are a special source of pride. Since 1956, our zoo has not only housed but also successfully bred polar bears. It was here that the polar bear pair Yermak and Bilka gave birth to Aika (artificially hand-raised), who later became the star of the popular documentary film “Polar Bear.”
Currently, two female bears live at our zoo: Zefirka and Smetanka. They have long been favorites among visitors. Smetanka was born on December 8, 2017. Her parents are Nanuk and Zefirka. Smetanka’s birth was a major sensation, as polar bears had not been born at Mykolaiv Zoo for nearly 50 years. Zefirka is a graceful and active female who arrived at our zoo in 2014. The male Nanuk lived at Mykolaiv Zoo for six years. In the summer of 2021, by decision of the coordinator of the European polar bear conservation program (EEP), he moved permanently to a zoo in Belgium.
The best way to celebrate this day is to visit Mykolaiv Zoo. You will feel the power of nature in the very heart of our city. The Arctic is closer than you think.
