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News Bites continued
WELFARE Turning the Table During this check-up, veterinarians were also able to
successfully collect semen from Hudson, which is being
Over the past few months, Chicago Zoological Society used for assisted reproductive techniques with two
veterinarians have taken some exciting new measures to female polar bears. Polar bears are listed as vulnerable
get more comprehensive answers to polar bear health according to the International Union for Conservation of
and wellbeing questions. Nature, primarily due to climate change and habitat loss,
so it is crucial to do everything possible to ensure the
This spring, Hudson Polar Bear received a CT scan survival of the species. Staff are optimistic the successful
during his routine check-up, something that had semen collection will help with pregnancy success.
previously been impossible, as he weighs over 1,000
pounds. The Society’s CT scan table had previously In addition to getting more detailed information
only been able to hold 660 pounds, but thanks to about Hudson’s health, animal care staff—under the
grant funding from the Aurelio M. Caccomo Family direction of Amy Roberts, curator of mammals—have
Foundation and the Judith and Alan Fleisch Endowment also completed a large study on polar bear behavior
Fund, we were able to purchase a new table that can to ensure our animals are thriving, and several staff
accommodate up to 2,200 pounds. There are only a few members are planning to travel to an international
such custom-made tables in the world and Brookfield polar bear workshop in November. These are important
Zoo is the only zoo to have one. aspects of our commitment to a multidisciplinary
approach that guarantees animal wellbeing, and we
The CT scan allowed veterinarians to assess Hudson’s are excited about continually learning more about best
joints, internal organs, and overall health, and the images practices for polar bear care. █
provided a good baseline that can be used as reference
to monitor his health over time.
Hudson polar bear (left) is prepared for a CT scan by the
veterinary staff (below).
14 GATEWAYS | NEWS BITES
