Volunteer   |   Donate

Admission Membership
Admission Membership

Construction is ongoing along key routes to the Zoo this spring. Before you head out, check MI Drive for current conditions and consider an alternate route if needed.

Polar Bear

(Ursus maritimus)

Three polar bears live inside the Detroit Zoo’s Arctic Ring of Life — one of the largest polar bear habitats in North America. The newest arrival, Kali, moved to the Zoo in 2026. He was rescued as an orphaned cub in Alaska in 2013. The habitat is also home to two females, Suka, born in 2012, and Haley, born in 2002.

Polar bears have dense, thick undercoats protected by outer coats of long, transparent fur. The transparent hairs reflect the sun’s rays off their dark skin, giving the illusion of a bright white coat.

On Habitat

Locate on Map

Quick Facts

Habitat: Arctic Ring of Life

Class: Mammals

Conservation Status: Vulnerable

Size: 6 to 9 feet tall

Weight: 450 to 1,400 pounds

Median life expectancy: 20 years

Diet: Ringed and bearded seals

Upcoming Events

Polar bar venue in tunnel under the water