Come on, baby. It’s time to explore the great outdoors
AS THE first polar bear born in Britain for a quarter of a century, this little cutie has big paws to fill. But the cub appears to be taking the role in its stride, confidently stepping out to explore the big wide world with mum.
In these remarkable pictures, the cub pads along next to its protective mother, Victoria, at their enclosure at the Highland Wildlife Park.
Born in December, it is waiting to be named because keepers don’t yet know its gender.
The cub went on public display last week at its outdoor enclosure at the park in Kincraig, Invernessshire, where lucky visitors can catch glimpses of the youngster.
Park keepers say the cub, which weighs less than two stone, has thrived since it emerged from its den earlier this month. A park blog said: ‘The cub is already moving around confidently and is strong and steady on its feet.
‘He/she has been investigating the outdoor environment and we have put out items such as small logs to climb on, which will aid muscle development. Victoria is very calm around her cub, which sticks close to mum, often staying under her body and moving between her legs as she moves. We have also observed the cub rolling on its back in the snow and playing with Victoria.’
Two male polar bears, including the cub’s father, Arktos, are kept in a separate enclosure.