It has been reported (http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2008/dec/03/knut-polar-bear-berlin-new-home) that Berlin zoo is looking to transfer their 'star' (former runty) Polar bear, Knut. Although Knut generated enormous media interest and greatly improved the finances of the zoo, his growth has led to the need to find him a larger enclosure. As this is difficult (Polar bears are wide-ranging, non-social animals most of the time in nature), one possibility is that another zoo will take him. The case illustrates some of the issues surrounding attempting to conserve species with these characteristics by captive breeding in zoos. Polar bears may need an icy north pole!
UPDATE The bear is now subject of a 'paternity case', as a zoo in north Germany is claiming that Knut's father was donated by them (entitling their establishment to a pay-off?).
This blog may help people explore some of the 'hidden' issues involved in certain media treatments of environmental and scientific issues. Using personal digital images, it's also intended to emphasise seasonal (and other) changes in natural history of the Swansea (South Wales) area. The material should help participants in field-based modules and people generally interested in the natural world. The views are wholly those of the author.
Wednesday 3 December 2008
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