It is with profound sadness that the Canadian Polar Bear Habitat, together with the Aquarium du Québec and the Town of Cochrane, announce the sudden loss of ten-year-old polar bear Taiga.

“We are heartbroken,” says JP Bradette, Chair of the Habitat’s Board of Directors. “Not only did Taiga play an integral role in our research and conservation efforts, she also touched the lives of staff, volunteers, and guests. She will be deeply missed by both the Habitat and the Aquarium du Québec families.”

Taiga had been living at the Habitat in Cochrane, Ontario for the past 11 months. Her permanent home was at the Aquarium du Québec.

“We were still very attached to Taiga, who provided magical moments both for our visitors and for the team that has looked after her for all these years,” says Elizabeth Tessier, Director of the Aquarium du Québec. “We have been extremely satisfied with the care provided to her by the staff at the Habitat. We are as saddened as they are by this news.”

Our staff describe Taiga as curious, energetic, and social. She was known to spend time observing people, and she was extremely responsive to interactions with animal care staff.

While Taiga was here, she ate seal, moose, and mackerel daily, along with fresh produce when it was in season. Watermelons seemed to be her absolute favourite.

She also had access to expansive, natural enclosures, and she took full advantage of that. Of the five bears who have had access to our lake enclosure, she was the one who was most likely to go on lengthy exploration missions. She was also the most likely to successfully hunt any of the small mammals and birds who had the misfortune of crossing her path.

Taiga is survived by her twin brother Ganuk, and father Inukshuk, both living here in Cochrane, as well as her mother Aisaqvak, and half-brother Kinuk, who live in Saint-Félicien, Québec.

We appreciate all the love and support during this difficult time, as well as all the love she was shown while here.

She will be missed.