Grizzly Bear Cubs now on exhibit at the Milwaukee County Zoo
June, 2002

Three grizzly bear cubs, born in early January, are now on outside exhibit at the Milwaukee County Zoo. These are the first grizzly cubs for the Zoo since 1977.

The cubs, along with their mother, Ronnie, are adjusting to their new outdoor surroundings under the care of the North American / Bear Line zookeepers. Ronnie arrived at the Zoo last summer from Yellowstone Park where she was captured as a problem bear. Zookeepers comment that Ronnie is an extremely good mother -- responding to her cubs when they bark, and protecting them from any possible danger. This is her second litter.

The cubs are now on display from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. As adults, females can weigh up to 700 pounds, males up to 1,000 pounds. The sex of the cubs is not yet known.

At the time of hibernation, Ronnie's den area off-exhibit was made comfortable for her in the event she gave birth. No delivery trucks were allowed in the area and the den was made well-insulated from the cold and any possible noise or distraction. Zookeepers were excited to begin hearing the cubs in late February / early March.

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