BEAR FORCE ONE
SEA World’s baby polar bear is not living up to her name. Mishka celebrates her first birthday this week and has fast become a favourite among visitors to the Gold Coast theme park.
But at more than 100kg and standing 1.5 metres tall she is outgrowing her name, which means “little bear” in Russian and Inuit. She could weigh almost 300kg fully grown.
SEA World’s baby polar bear has made a splash at her own birthday bash.
Mishka, born a year ago this week to mum Liya, celebrated her big day with a party including toys, treats and a special fish-flavoured birthday cake.
Mishka – meaning “little bear” in Russian and Inuit – might also need a new name as she now weighs more than 100kg and stands 1.5 metres tall. She could weigh almost 300kg fully grown.
Polar Bear Shores Supervisor Tacha Mulligan said the whole team was excited to celebrate the milestone.
“Mishka has become a favourite of Sea World guests and this is a great occasion for us to throw her a wonderful party where she can celebrate with her favourite toys and treats,” she said.
“She really enjoys diving and playing with toys in the pool which is great for Sea World guests who can get an up-close view through the underwater viewing area.”
The polar bears at Sea World are ambassadors for their species and play a vital role in raising awareness of the effects of global warming.