Since its grand opening in June, the Columbus Zoo’s North America Trek region has become a must-see for guests this summer—and now, two adorable new arrivals are giving you yet another reason to stop by, and their journey here is as heartwarming as it is important.

The Rough Start

Originally found in Montana, the young sisters—each weighing just 12 pounds—were taken into professional care after their mother was euthanized after she was deemed a public safety threat. In Montana, wildlife agencies consider this option as a last resort, especially when dependent cubs are involved. In this case, authorities only proceeded after confirming the cubs would have a safe place to go—and thanks to our long-standing partnerships with wildlife professionals across the country, the Columbus Zoo was called in.

North America Trek Curator Nikki Smith flew to Montana, personally escorting the cubs back to their new home in Ohio. Now weighing over 30 pounds each, the cubs are thriving behind the scenes—safe, loved, and full of personality.

Behind-the-Scenes Care and Play

The Animal Care team has been working around the clock to help the cubs build strength, confidence, and skills. Every day includes:

• A diet tailored to support their rapid growth and energy needs, with a larger variety gradually introduced to help transition them to their “big bear” meals
• Enrichment activities to encourage natural behaviors like climbing, foraging, and chewing
• Behavioral training that includes voluntary participation in weigh-ins and recalling to their cozy bed area

This specialized care is part of the Zoo’s commitment to providing a second chance to animals in need—especially those, like these sisters, who can’t safely return to the wild.

As they continue to grow, the cubs will begin the process of acclimating to the black bear habitat and, in the future, be introduced to Stevie, the Zoo’s long-time black bear resident. While the process will happen gradually, the team is optimistic. For now, the care team reports that the cubs have already mastered the art of stealing hearts.

Why This Matters: Black Bears in Their Native Range

Though often misunderstood, American black bears (Ursus americanus) are an important part of Ohio’s native wildlife. Once eliminated from the state due to habitat loss and unregulated hunting, black bears are slowly returning—particularly in southeastern and eastern Ohio—thanks to conservation efforts and habitat protection.

Here’s what to know:

• Black bears are typically shy and will avoid people when given the chance.
• Cubs usually stay with their mothers for about 18 months, learning how to find food, avoid danger, and navigate their environment.
• In Ohio, all black bear sightings are valuable to conservation research. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) encourages residents to report sightings through its website or by calling a local wildlife office.

If you encounter a bear:

• Remain calm, don’t run, and never approach it.
• Secure food sources like garbage cans, bird feeders, grills, and pet food.
• Keep pets leashed and under control.
• Report sightings to ODNR to help scientists monitor the population.

The Power of Rescue 

The two cubs at the Columbus Zoo now have the opportunity to live full, enriching lives—serving as animal ambassadors to help guests of all ages learn about native species, conservation, and how humans can peacefully coexist with local wildlife.

Every Zoo visit and every donation makes a difference. Your support helps us respond when animals like these cubs need a new beginning.

Check Back for Updates

We’ll update social media regularly with:

• The cubs’ names (coming soon!)
• Dates when the new cubs may be viewable in the habitat
• Photos, video highlights, and progress from their training
• Updates on their introduction to Stevie

Be sure to follow the Columbus Zoo on social media for more sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes moments—and check back here for the latest news on our growing bear family.

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