Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Pictures: Knut through the years

Pictures: Knut through the years




Berlin's beloved polar bear Knut died alone in his compound at the age of four on March 19, 2011. He was hand-raised by zoo keepers after his mother rejected him at birth. 
Knut was born on December 5, 2006, the first polar bear to be born and survive at the Berlin Zoo in 30 years.

Knut is hand-fed




    He made his public debut on March 23, 2007 in front of more than 400 journalists.

    Knut practices walking



    Knut's captivity was criticized by animal rights activist Frank Albrecht, who claimed the polar bear was being kept as a "domestic pet."

    Knut's first appearance

    In his first year at the zoo it was reported ticket sales spiked 30% from 2006.

    Fans flock to the zoo

    The Berlin Zoo registered "Knut" as a trademark in late March 2007.

    Knut, the celebrity polar bear cub

    Knut has been the subject of several popular songs in Germany, the most successful of which was the single "Knut is Cute."

    Knut in 2007

    A year after his public debut, Knut was reported as weighing more than 286 pounds. A plate of six-inch glass, strong enough to resist a mortar blast, was erected between him and zoo visitors.

    Knut loses zookeeper

    Knut was introduced to female polar bear Giovanna in 2009. The two bears were nearly the same age.

    Knut and Giovanna

    Knut can be seen on the logo for the German Environment Minister's campaign to help stop global warming and a 2008 special issue stamp.

    Knut in 2009

    Knut died at the Berlin Zoo on March 19, 2011 at the age of four. Most polar bears live to the age of 20.

    Knut in 2010




    A memorial fund has been opened in honor of Knut, with funds going toward the preservation of polar bear habitats.


    Knut dies





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