Inuka, the first polar bear born in the tropics, turns 25 this year and Singapore Zoo has kicked-off a 10-day celebration along with a photo exhibition to raise awareness on the natural arctic habitat of polar bears. Her Excellency Berit Basse, Ambassador of Denmark to Singapore, officiated the launch at an intimate event held in Singapore Zoo’s Frozen Tundra exhibit on 16 December 2015.
Mr Mike Barclay, Chief Executive Officer, Wildlife Reserves Singapore, said, “As Inuka, Singapore’s very own locally born and bred polar bear turns 25, he is officially in his golden years and we will adjust his care to ensure he continues to enjoy a great quality of life with us here in the Singapore Zoo. We are very happy to celebrate his birthday with this excellent Our Arctic Future photo exhibition.”
The Arctic Future photo exhibition highlights the importance of sustainability and evolving relationships between people and the arctic. It was developed by the Natural History Museum of Denmark in collaboration with the Governments of Greenland and the Faroe Islands for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark.
Inuka is the star attraction in Singapore Zoo’s Frozen Tundra exhibit, opened in 2013, and is fondly referred to as the “best Christmas present ever” by Singapore Zoo keepers because he was born in his mother’s den in the early hours of 26 December 1990. At 25 years of age, Inuka is a senior bear. His last health check in July this year showed age-related conditions like arthritis and dental issues which the Singapore Zoo veterinary team is closely monitoring. Inuka currently measures 2.5m from nose to tail, and weighs 581kg.
Mr Alan Chan, Chief Executive Officer of Singapore Press Holdings and Director of SPH Foundation, said: “SPH and SPH Foundation have adopted Inuka since his birth 25 years ago. We are happy to see him grow both in size and popularity over the years. We wish Inuka a happy birthday and hope he can bring joy to many for years to come. Through our close partnership with Wildlife Reserves Singapore, we will continue to promote community awareness and responsibility in wildlife protection and conservation, which is one of SPH Foundation’s core objectives.”
During the 10-day celebration, guests at Singapore Zoo can catch Inuka enjoying birthday treats each afternoon at 1.20pm and learn more about the fascinating arctic landscape at the Our Arctic Future photo exhibition at Frozen Tundra.
