Wildlife & Conservation: Sun Bear Encounter at Canberra Zoo
Difficulty
easy
Duration
15 minutes
Fitness Level
No special fitness required, suitable for all ages.
Overview
Get a close-up look at Malayan Sun Bears and learn about vital conservation efforts at Canberra Zoo. This unique encounter offers both fun and meaningful connection with wildlife.
Sun Bear Encounter
Age 6+ • 15 Min • Hear one of the animal kingdom's most memorable stories!
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About This Adventure
Experience an unforgettable 15-minute encounter with Arataki and Otay, the charming Malayan Sun Bear pair. Discover their inspiring love story and the heroic efforts of Mary Hutton in saving bears. Enjoy the thrill of personally feeding these gentle giants as they playfully assert their dominance. Bring your sense of adventure!
Duration
15 Min
About
Meet, greet and treat Malayan Sun Bear pair, Arataki and Otay!
Learn about their love story! Meet our beautiful sun bears and hear the remarkable tale of Arataki and Otay’s journey. One of survival, learn how Australian Mary Hutton saved over 1,000 bears, including our own!
You will personally feed the most protective of the bear family, but while letting you know who is boss, they will gently take their food from you!
More info
- ZOO ENTRY FEE Not included and must be purchased separately
- 6 years (must be accompanied by a paying adult if under the age of 16)
What to bring
A sense of adventure and comfy walking shoes!
Adventure Tips
Arrive early
To maximize your experience, arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled encounter.
Wear comfortable clothing
Dress appropriately for an outdoor setting with easy-to-move-in clothes.
Bring a camera
Capture memories of your intimate moments with Arataki and Otay.
Attend the educational briefing
Pay attention to the conservation talk to better understand bears' ecological significance.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Possibly see native lorikeets in the aviaries.
- Watch out for Eurasian red squirrels in the wooded areas.
History
The Canberra Zoo and Aquarium has been a key part of the local conservation community since its founding in 1990.
Conservation
The zoo actively participates in international wildlife rescue programs, focusing on habitat preservation and animal rehabilitation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Canberra
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Camera
Perfect for capturing your moments with the bears.
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for navigating the zoo grounds comfortably.
Sun protection
Bring sunscreen, hat, or sunglasses to stay protected.
summer specific
Weather-appropriate clothing
Stay warm while enjoying the outdoor encounter.
winter specific