3.5.2026 by Michelle Rippey
The Bear Awareness Week was 18-24 May. Today it’s all 🐻❄️ Nora. She’s a fun 🐻❄️ to observe & 📷. Her move from Oregon to Henry Vilas Zoo (Madison) back in January went extremely well. Nora’s pairing with Siku melts 💕. Here’s Nora after Siku headed out of the pool to rest for his next round. Have a happy day!✌️❤️&🐻❄️🐻
Here comes 🐻❄️ Nora 😍
Sometimes Nora is sparkly white (& sometimes not). 🙂
Nora was born in the Columbus Zoo on Nov 6. 2015.
When Nora was 6 days old her mom Aurora left the den & never returned. Columbus Zoo staff sprung into action and Nora was then raised by humans.
Nora is 1 of 6 🐻❄️ to be raised successfully by humans. Not all went smoothly, but Nora has conquered all obstacles that were encountered.
Nora’s dad Nanuq (now deceased) was born in the wild. Unfortunately, his mother was killed when a hunter accidentally stepped on their den. Nora’s grandmother was killed, but the hunter saved both cubs (Nanuq being one).
Approx 500-1000 polar bears are hunted annually, but mainly by indigenous populations (Canada, Greenland, Russia).
Polar bears are classified as “vulnerable”
Nora, where did you find that snackie?
I hope it was tasty….
Beautiful, Nora😍
Nora’s definitely well aware of her audience & the 📷
Happy Bear Awareness Week. Don’t be a TOURON!
Dear Michelle!
Nora is a beautiful Lady. Your pictures are great.
Hugs
Ludmila
Eine hübsche und mollige Eisbären ist Nora. Als Handaufzucht hat sie eine besondere Geschichte für ihren Zoo, wie wir von Knut wissen.
Dear Michelle!
Nora is a beautiful female polar bear. Raised by hand as a helpless cub, she has, like Knut, undoubtedly helped many visitors to fall in love with polar bears and become committed to their protection. Thank you for the wonderful photos!
Hugs
Anke
Vielen Dank für die Fotogrüße von der schönen Nora,die trotz dem schwierigen Start nun ihr Leben im Henry Vilas Zoo genießt und es sich gut gehen lässt. 👍🐻❄️👌😊