Nick and Simon on through life as Nicky and Simone
The suspicion of the caretakers of the polar bears born in Eindhoven Zoo in November turns out to be well-founded: DNA research shows that Nick and Simon are two girls. From now on they will be called Nicky and Simone.
In mid-February, the polar bears were examined once by the veterinarian and animal caretakers. During this examination, they received a microchip and deworming treatment. The gender was also examined. Because the polar bears were already very strong and their mother did not fully agree with all the procedures, a quick scan was performed. From this it appeared to be two males, who were then named Nick and Simon through a naming contest. As the polar bears grew larger and were outside all day, the animal caretakers were able to better observe the animals and began to question their gender. Urination did not occur between the hind legs, but simply from under the belly. And that characterizes female behavior.
DNA research
DNA research was therefore conducted, which showed that the polar bears have high progesterone levels, just like their mother. Nick and Simon will therefore be called Nicky and Simone from now on. The research was followed in the documentary series 'Komt een aap bij de dokter' on Omroep Brabant. That the polar bear twins are two girls is very good news for the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP), the breeding program for endangered animals in European zoos in which Eindhoven Zoo participates. Nicky and Simone can - hopefully - become mothers of a new generation of polar bears themselves in a few years! Watch the episode below.