Detroit Zoo Welcomes Kali in Polar Bear Exchange With Toledo Zoo

Detroit Zoo received Kali, a 13-year-old male polar bear, from Toledo Zoo. The Detroit Zoo swapped 21-year-old Nuka to Toledo in late January 2026. .

The Polar Bear Population Alliance suggested this move to keep genetic variety strong among captive polar bears. Zoos across North America work together to keep breeding populations healthy and prevent inbreeding problems that weaken animals over time.

"This successful transfer reflects the collaboration of our teams in Detroit and Toledo, as well as a shared commitment to animal well-being and conservation," said Mike Murray, chief life sciences officer for the Detroit Zoo according to Fox 2 Detroit.

Kali's tale began in Alaska as an orphan. Residents of the Native Village of Point Lay discovered him as a cub in 2013, abandoned and alone. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service rescued the young bear. He went to Saint Louis Zoo in 2015, then moved to Toledo in 2025.

Workers say Kali loves company and puzzles. He uses strength and smarts to solve challenges. Guests fascinate him, and he spends hours watching people who visit.

Kali now lives in the 4-acre Arctic Ring of Life with two females: Suka, age 13, and Haley, 23. Staff will introduce Kali to his new companions slowly. Kali can go outside where people can see him, but he might hide indoors while he gets comfortable.

Nuka heads back to Toledo's Arctic Encounter habitat, where he lived previously.

"Nuka is an incredible polar bear, and we know he will continue to thrive in Toledo, where he will once again be paired with female polar bear Crystal," Murray said. "Here in Detroit, Kali is already settling in, and we know he will be an outstanding ambassador for his species and a wonderful addition to the polar bear group."

Wild polar bears struggle as sea ice melts and hunting grounds disappear. These swaps help zoos build backup populations. Scientists hope captive breeding can protect the species if conditions worsen in the Arctic.

People can visit Kali at Arctic Ring of Life from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hours change April 1 to 9 a.m. through 5 p.m. The zoo sits at 8450 W. 10 Mile Rd. in Royal Oak.