SALISBURY ZOO PREPARES FOR CHASKA THE ANDEAN BEAR'S RELOCATION TO ALEXANDRIA ZOO
SALISBURY, Maryland - The Salisbury Zoo is preparing to bid a fond farewell to Chaska, its beloved female Andean bear, as she moves to a new chapter at the Alexandria Zoo in Louisiana. This carefully planned relocation is set for early May and aims to enhance Chaska's future care while also opening new opportunities for the Andean bear population at the Salisbury Zoo.
To celebrate Chaska's successful years at the Zoo, a special event will be held on Earth Day, Tuesday, April 22nd. This celebration will feature enrichment activities tailored for Chaska, as well as educational opportunities about Andean bears and conservation efforts.
Since arriving from the Smithsonian's National Zoo in 2013, Chaska has become an integral part of the Salisbury Zoo family. Her presence has significantly contributed to the Zoo's breeding programs.
As the mother of four cubs, her offspring have found homes in zoos worldwide, enhancing the genetic diversity of Andean bears in captivity.
At 15 years old, Chaska is set to retire from breeding under the Andean Bear Species Survival Plan (SSP), as her genetic lineage is adequately represented in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' (AZA) population. Her relocation has been meticulously planned with expert oversight, including professional transportation and veterinary support.
The move also marks the beginning of a new Andean bear exhibit at the Salisbury Zoo. The existing Andean bear and former North American otter exhibit areas will be revitalized to create this updated space.
The generosity of Perdue in funding the architectural plans and construction is essential to supporting the Zoo's ongoing mission of excellence in animal care, conservation, and education.
Chaska's presence at Salisbury has had a profound impact on both visitors and staff, leaving a lasting legacy. As she departs, the Zoo is excited to continue its commitment to Andean bear preservation while looking forward to future educational opportunities for the community.
To celebrate Chaska's successful years at the Zoo, a special event will be held on Earth Day, Tuesday, April 22nd. This celebration will feature enrichment activities tailored for Chaska, as well as educational opportunities about Andean bears and conservation efforts.
Since arriving from the Smithsonian's National Zoo in 2013, Chaska has become an integral part of the Salisbury Zoo family. Her presence has significantly contributed to the Zoo's breeding programs.
As the mother of four cubs, her offspring have found homes in zoos worldwide, enhancing the genetic diversity of Andean bears in captivity.
At 15 years old, Chaska is set to retire from breeding under the Andean Bear Species Survival Plan (SSP), as her genetic lineage is adequately represented in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' (AZA) population. Her relocation has been meticulously planned with expert oversight, including professional transportation and veterinary support.
The move also marks the beginning of a new Andean bear exhibit at the Salisbury Zoo. The existing Andean bear and former North American otter exhibit areas will be revitalized to create this updated space.
The generosity of Perdue in funding the architectural plans and construction is essential to supporting the Zoo's ongoing mission of excellence in animal care, conservation, and education.
Chaska's presence at Salisbury has had a profound impact on both visitors and staff, leaving a lasting legacy. As she departs, the Zoo is excited to continue its commitment to Andean bear preservation while looking forward to future educational opportunities for the community.
