7.5.2020 – Source: Columbus Zoo & Aquarium
The results are in, and the winner is … Kulu!
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium launched this very special naming opportunity so wildlife fans could have the chance to vote for their favorite name for Aurora’s cub. Approximately 42,000 polar bear fans representing 67 countries voted online for their favorite of three names for Aurora’s male cub (Kulu, Minik, or Corky, a nod to Armstrong World Industries’ beginnings as a cork manufacturer and whose support and generosity has been appreciated by the Columbus Zoo for several years).
The favorite name for this cub (receiving 48 percent of the votes) was Kulu, followed by Minik (13,142 votes), and Corky (8,785 votes). The word “Kulu” is an Inuit term of endearment.
Leading up to the birth of the cub, as well as for weeks after he was born, the Columbus Zoo’s dedicated polar bear care team monitored mom, Aurora, and her little one around the clock via mounted cameras documenting—and sharing in—every moment.
Aurora has been an excellent mother, and keepers have watched Aurora and her little one develop a close bond. Keepers have also been able to expand on their own trusting relationship with Aurora and to develop one with Kulu now that the bears have ventured out of the birthing den, into other behind-the-scenes habitats, and now the large outdoor habitat. Not only has he endeared himself to his loving mother and devoted keepers, but Kulu is precious to this threatened species, offering hope for the future of polar bears. Kulu’s name was announced on Wednesday, April 22, 2020, the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day.
Getting to know Kulu:
Born on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2019 to mother, Aurora, and first-time father, Lee, this polar bear cub has shown a great deal of spunk since his arrival into the world. All of Aurora and her twin sister, Anana’s previous cubs (Nora, Neva, Nuniq and Amelia Gray) have each had their unique personalities, and Kulu is certainly coming into his own!
Now an 85-pound furry ball of energy, he is not easily fazed and seems to treat every day as a new adventure. Kulu loves to swim, play with enrichment items, participate in important training sessions with his dedicated Animal Care team, roll in dirt piles and cuddle (as well as roughhouse) with his gentle and ever-patient mom.
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