Philadelphia, PA - The Philadelphia Zoo debuted its newest addition -- a delightful sloth bear cub-- born in December to parents Kayla, the Zoo’s 7-year-old female, and 6-year old Bhalu.
Sloth Bear Cub Birth at the Philly Zoo
Debuting today, on the Zoo’s new Facebook Live Program- Philly Zoo at 2 pm, the cub ventured outside for the first time ever, romping, playing, climbing, and hanging with mom.
“Today Kayla and her cub explored their outdoor exhibit area for the very first time,” says Donna Evernham, Philadelphia Zoo’s Curator of Ungulates and Carnivores. “The adventure was a success, we saw the cub following moms every move and Kayla teaching the cub how to be a bear,” says Evernham.
The birth of this cub highlights the critical work happening at Philadelphia Zoo each and every day. “Our staff continues to work endlessly, both onsite and remotely, to care for our animals,” says Vikram H.
As the baby cub continues to grow, it will begin to ride on Kayla’s back via clinging to her fur to move around faster. Eventually becoming more independent and ultimately growing up to 300 pounds when fully grown.
The birth of this cub highlights the critical work happening at Philadelphia Zoo each and every day. “Our staff continues to work endlessly, both onsite and remotely, to care for our animals,” says Vikram H.
Still nursing from mom, the infant will learn how to use its unique flexible snouts to suck up termites or ants from trees. Aside from insects, sloth bears also enjoy fruits, flowers, sugar cane, and honey.
The Philadelphia Zoo has three sloth bears: 6-year-old Bhalu, 7-year-old Kayla, and 13- year-old Balawat. For more information on or to donate to the SPRING BACK fund visit, www.PhiladelphiaZoo.org.
