Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden

The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden will conduct research to address critical needs of threatened and endangered bear species that are facing reproductive challenges. Building on a decade of research into polar bear reproduction, this project will evaluate and implement innovative reproductive monitoring techniques, establish a standard of best practices in fertility assessments, and enhance reproduction and preserve genetic material by providing assisted reproductive technologies services across bear species. The museum will train a post-doc scientist and create three paid scholar positions to assist with the research, and facilitate cross-training opportunities with researchers at the Memphis Zoo. The overarching goal of the project is to provide exemplary collections stewardship of captive bears by identifying new solutions for widespread challenges, which will help to ensure the presence of bears in zoos for years to come.