Siku, a 15-year-old male polar bear at Lincoln Park Zoo, will soon move to Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison, Wisconsin. The transfer is part of a broader conservation effort across the United States to support the genetic diversity and sustainability of polar bears, which are considered a threatened species.
Siku arrived in Chicago in 2016 and quickly became popular among both zoo visitors and staff due to his energetic personality. During his time at the zoo, members had an opportunity to say farewell by leaving messages on the window of his habitat.
“It’s hard not to smile when you see Siku swimming, exploring, pouncing on one of his many balls, or foraging in ice,” said curator Cassy Kutilek. “He quickly won the hearts of his care team and while we’ll be sad to see him go, we’re excited to see him embark on his next adventure—hopefully as a polar bear dad!”
Talini, the zoo’s resident female polar bear, will remain at Lincoln Park Zoo where she will continue to receive specialized care appropriate for her age. As is typical for wild polar bears, Talini will soon begin her winter denning period.
Lincoln Park Zoo was founded in 1868 and operates as a not-for-profit organization. It is open every day of the year without charge, focusing on conservation, animal welfare, education, and science.