An orphaned grizzly bear cub named Jebbie, found wandering alone in Tok, Alaska, recently found a new home at the Detroit Zoo. There, he met Laerke, a young polar bear born at the zoo last year.
After a careful health check and quarantine, Jebbie was introduced to Laerke in the Arctic Ring of Life exhibit. Since then, the two cubs have formed a heartwarming bond — wrestling, playing with toys, and spending every day together.
Zookeepers shared adorable photos and videos of their budding friendship: the two cubs chasing each other, rolling in the grass, and discovering the joys of companionship. The exhibit, one of the world’s largest polar bear habitats, provides grassy tundra, freshwater pools, “pack ice,” and a large saltwater pool for them to explore.
Scott Carter, chief life sciences officer of the Detroit Zoological Society, said, “We’re thrilled to provide sanctuary for Jebbie and a much-needed companion for Laerke. Their social development is critically important for both cubs.”
After Laerke’s birth, she had to be treated at the zoo’s Animal Health Complex due to weakness. When she recovered, her mother no longer recognized her, leaving Laerke without a companion. Thanks to Jebbie’s arrival, the two cubs can now grow up together, bringing joy to zoo visitors every day.
🐾 Visitors to the Detroit Zoo can now watch Jebbie and Laerke’s extraordinary friendship bloom in person.