TOLEDO, Ohio, Jan. 30, 2026 — The Toledo Zoo is thrilled to welcome back male polar bear Nuka, who has returned to Arctic Encounter following a collaborative transfer with the Detroit Zoo. The move follows recommendations from the Polar Bear Population Alliance and supports responsible breeding and population management across accredited zoos.

Nuka, 21, previously lived at the Detroit Zoo from 2011 to 2022 and arrived at the Toledo Zoo in February 2022 to be paired with female polar bear Crystal as part of a breeding effort. That match proved successful, resulting in the birth of twin cubs later that November. Hoping to build on that momentum, Nuka has returned this season with the potential for another successful pairing.

“At the same time, Kali is participating in a coordinated breeding program at the Detroit Zoo,” said Beverly Clinton, curator of mammals at the Toledo Zoo. “These moves reflect a thoughtfully coordinated plan developed by the Polar Bear Population Alliance to ensure a healthy, sustainable and genetically diverse polar bear population.”

Since his arrival, Nuka has adjusted quickly, spending time exploring his habitat, swimming and engaging with enrichment items. Keepers report he shows particular interest in barrels, a giant Boomer Ball and other objects he can pounce on. His diet includes favorite foods such as carrots, melon and cooked yams, along with new treats like dried fruit and Cheerios.

Opened in 2000, Arctic Encounter offers expansive, immersive environments for polar bears and marine mammals. The exhibit features a 6,550-square-foot polar bear habitat with a 100,000-gallon pool and an interactive building with underwater viewing galleries that allow guests to observe animals from unique perspectives.

Nuka is undergoing a gradual acclimation process and will be carefully reintroduced to Crystal under the guidance of Zoo staff. Viewing may vary during this period.

Crystal has successfully raised nine cubs during her lifetime. Any cubs born would remain with their mother for approximately two years, consistent with her previous litters. Nuka and Crystal previously welcomed twin cubs, Kallik and Kallu, in 2022. Kallik now resides at the Oregon Zoo, while Kallu lives at the Saint Louis Zoo.

Polar bears in the wild face growing threats from climate change, loss of sea ice and increased human-wildlife conflict. Through strategic partnerships and science-based management, the Toledo Zoo continues to play a vital role in the conservation of this iconic species.

Polar bear photos and video can be found here. Please credit Toledo Zoo & Aquarium where applicable.

For more information about the Arctic Encounter, which is home to polar bears, sea lions, seals and wolves, visit toledozoo.org/exhibits/arctic-encounter.