Lincoln Park Zoo Says “See You Later” to Beloved Polar Bear

CHICAGO (October 16, 2025) – Siku, a 15-year-old male polar bear at Lincoln Park Zoo, will be leaving Chicago in the coming weeks and moving to Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison, Wisc.

Siku’s transfer is part of a nationwide polar bear conservation initiative to maintain a sustainable, genetically diverse population of this threatened species.

Lincoln Park Zoo members had the chance to say goodbye to Siku during the most recent Early Bird Member Morning. Guests were encouraged to leave messages on the window of the polar bear habitat at Walter Family Arctic Tundra. Since his arrival in Chicago in 2016, Siku has become a fan favorite for visitors and staff alike, thanks to his playful nature.

“It’s hard not to smile when you see Siku swimming, exploring, pouncing on one of his many balls, or foraging in ice,” said curator Cassy Kutilek. “He quickly won the hearts of his care team and while we’ll be sad to see him go, we’re excited to see him embark on his next adventure—hopefully as a polar bear dad!”

Resident female polar bear Talini will stay here at Lincoln Park Zoo receiving specialized geriatric care throughout her sunset years. Polar bears are solitary animals in the wild and Talini will shortly enter her den for the winter.

About Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo inspires communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world. The zoo is a leader in local and global conservation, animal care and welfare, learning, and science. A historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, the not-for-profit Lincoln Park Zoo is a privately-managed, member-supported organization and is free and open 365 days a year. Visit us at lpzoo.org.

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