Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center Welcomes Two Orphaned Black Bear Cubs
The Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center is thrilled to welcome two orphaned black bear cubs — a male from Wisconsin and a female from Montana — who are now calling Topeka home!
Meet Taz, a 7-month-old ball of energy with a dark coat and a big personality. “This little guy is all paws and personality,” says Animal Curator Shanna Simpson. Rescued at just a few days old, Taz is too comfortable around people to return to the wild — and he's already charming the entire team.
Joining him is Kiona (Kee-OH-nuh), an 18-month-old female with beautiful chestnut fur and a calm, sweet demeanor. Kiona means ‘brown hills’ in multiple Native American languages, attributing to her chestnut-brown fur & the fact she was found in Montana. Kiona has vision impairments that make living in human care her safest option. “She’s warming up to our staff and making great progress,” adds Simpson.
“Each year, orphaned cubs need places like ours,” says Animal Care Director Wrylie Guffey. “We’re proud to give these two a forever home and can’t wait to watch them grow.”
Zoo staff are closely monitoring the two cubs, and it is indefinite when they will be mature enough to be in the bear yard, viewable by guests entering Hills Black Bear Woods. The Zoo encourages the community to stay tuned for updates and further announcements on their social media.
