The Museum of Life
and Science in Durham is welcoming a new, 1-year-old black bear cub to its
Explore the Wild: Black Bears habitat.
The 115-pound male cub joins the museum’s two adult black bears,
Little (5) and Murray (3).
The cub was found in Montana, abandoned and near death back in December 2025.
Montana Wildlife officials were able to rescue the cub and
through the Association
of Zoos and Aquariums, find the cub his new home at The Museum of Life and Science in Durham.
Through the FedEx
Cares Delivering Good initiative, the cub and a veterinarian were able to
make the trip from Montana to Durham safely.
And to honor the cub’s native habitat and the wildlife officials that saved his
life, the cub’s animal care team at the museum decided to name him Montana.
“We are so appreciative of our partners at Montana Fish,
Wildlife, and Parks, AZA, and FedEx,” Senior Director of Animal Care Sherry
Samuels said. “The care and speed in which so many came together to make sure
this cub was cared for is a testament to the amazing things that happen when
people come together for a common good.”
Montana finished his time in quarantine and has been introduced to his new
surroundings. The cub is still getting
adjusted, but visitors could get a glimpse of him this spring and summer as he
settles into his new home.
“We’re excited to provide a home for another black bear cub,” Samuels said.
“Montana is the third cub in the last five years that needed a forever home;
the Museum is honored to provide a space for this animal to have the best
quality of life.”
Visitors to the museum can see the black bears and all the other animals and exhibits
during regular operating hours, Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am until 5 pm (9 am
for Members). For tickets and more information, visit lifeandscience.org.