Off Exhibit: Grin and Bear It

Episode #9

There’s no shortage of smiles among polar bear keepers. Working with these iconic, majestic and beloved animals is tough work, but it’s something that brings out passion in many animal professionals, including Tanya White. Tanya is a zookeeper who’s worked at the Zoo for more than 18 years and cares for many animals including polar bears (who she confesses are her favorite). Learn what it’s like to connect with the world’s largest land predators and why Tanya is so taken by them. Plus, get special information about polar bear breeding, including an update from inside Polar Bear Watch with the Zoo’s female polar bear, Anoki. Hear how keepers are working to improve the probability of a pregnancy and what’s on the horizon for the polar bear team as they work to educate guests about the plight of these creatures and the effects of climate change on their future.

More About Off Exhibit

Off Exhibit is a podcast featuring in-depth discussions with animal professionals and wildlife experts from behind-the-scenes at the Maryland Zoo. Subscribe via iTunes, Android, or RSS. New episodes uploaded on Wednesdays.