Ep 4. Polar Bear Opposites

In season 1, episode 4 of Secrets of the Zoo: North Carolina, viewers will get a closer look at polar bears and their unique personalities at the North Carolina Zoo. The episode introduces two polar bears, Nikita and Anana, who couldn't be more different from one another. Nikita is a large, powerful male who loves to play and interact with his keepers, while Anana is a smaller female who is more reserved and cautious.

The episode follows the keepers as they work to maintain the health and happiness of these majestic animals in captivity. One of the biggest challenges they face is keeping Nikita mentally and physically stimulated. The team devises a new enrichment activity for him that involves introducing him to a large pile of ice and frozen fish.

Meanwhile, Anana is due for a medical checkup, which can be a tricky process given her shyness. The keepers must earn her trust and coax her out of her den in order to examine her. They discover that Anana is suffering from a skin condition, which they treat with a specialized ointment.

In addition to the polar bears, viewers are introduced to a variety of other animals at the North Carolina Zoo, including a group of river otters and a pair of red wolves. The otters are given a new climbing structure to provide them with more opportunities for exercise and play, while the red wolves are being monitored closely as they prepare for breeding season.

Finally, the episode wraps up with a heartwarming moment between Nikita and one of his keepers. After spending time playing together in the snow, the keeper is able to give Nikita a kiss on the nose, a sign of trust and affection that speaks volumes about the strong bond between these incredible animals and their caretakers.

Overall, Secrets of the Zoo: North Carolina season 1 episode 4 is an engaging and informative look at the unique challenges and rewards of caring for polar bears in captivity, as well as the important work being done to protect endangered species at the North Carolina Zoo.