(DURHAM, NC – February 23, 2010) Yona, the 4 lb. black bear cub that was found abandoned in Townsend Tennessee last year is now on display at the Museum of Life and Science in Durham for the public to meet. The 90 lb. yearling has joined four other bears, Gus, Mimi, Virginia and Ursula in the Museum’s one acre, Explore the Wild bear attraction. Here Yona can swim beneath a cascading waterfall, lounge on deadfall trees, dig for nuts and berries, and climb granite walls in search of a restful place.

“It’s exciting to have a new bear for our youngest bear Gus to pal around with,” commented Kristen Pormann, lead animal keeper.

Yona arrived this year at the Museum on January 15 and was placed in quarantine in the bear house before meeting the other four bears up-close and personal this past Monday. The introductions were fairly uneventful and the bears seemed to be tolerant of Yona’s presence. Gus, the male bear seemed especially interested in Yona. Periodically the two wrestled playfully in the bear house – Gus even climbed on-top of a play structure, while Yona playfully swatted at his feet from below.

The young bear is still getting adjusted to her new space. Currently she prefers to stay in the bear house, while the other four bears prefer to lounge in the bear yard.

“I’m sure she will eventually feel comfortable enough and head out, but for now, evidently there’s no place like home,” shared Sherry Samuels, animal department director.

To learn more about Yona’s progress, attend one of the daily 2 p.m. Meet the Keeper talks at the Museum of Life and Science or visit the Animals and Keepers Blog.