Between them they weighed almost a tonne, so when the only two polar bears in public zoos in the UK got to know each other properly yesterday, it was straight down to business ...
wrestling.
Four-year-old Arktos arrived at the Highland Wildlife Park, near Kincraig south of Aviemore, from Hanover zoo in Germany last week. He is to be a companion to the park's resident polar bear Walker, who is a year younger.
After a short settling-in period with Arktos housed next to Walker's enclosure, allowing them to catch the scent of each other, keepers decided it was time for the male pair to get together in the main polar bear enclosure.
Douglas Richardson, animal collection manager at the Highland Wildlife Park, said: "Walker is a great bear who is full of fun and character, and it seems Arktos is exactly the same. It will be great to see the pair interact with each other and observe how their companionship develops over time.
"Introducing two 400kg carnivores is of course a tad nerve-wracking, but so far it has all been rough play that would make a professional heavy-weight wrestler proud."
Walker had been due to be joined by a potential mate at some point this year, but the female picked out was found to already be pregnant.
Mr Richardson said: "We're delighted to have a second male polar bear join us in the Highlands. Great company for Walker, Arktos (who was born in Vienna zoo), will provide companionship, greater enrichment and stimulation – which will enhance Walker's suitably complex lifestyle."
They will share a five-acre bachelor pad, complete with a pond big enough for two.
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