COCHRANE, Ont. — A northern Ontario polar bear reserve is calling their latest acquisition a "Polar Picasso."
The Cochrane Polar Bear Habitat says Henry — a nearly three-year-old bear from Australia — has tried his paw at painting.
Habitat manager Karen Cummings says his first session was with red and blue paint — the colours of the Australian flag in honour of Henry's homeland.
Cummings says one of his first five paintings was sent to Sea World, Australia "in appreciation of their trust in us to care for this extremely precious gift."
Henry's first painting muse was pig fat — non-toxic paint was spread near the opening to a holding room, then art paper was placed in strategic locations, interspersed with Henry's treats.
A keeper encouraged Henry to enter the room and got him back outside before he decided to tear his artwork to shreds.
"He seemed to enjoy the new smell and feel of paint on his paws. At first he wasn't sure if he should eat it or walk through it, but he got the hang of it quickly," said habitat conservation co-ordinator Dylan McCart.
Sea World's director of marine sciences, Trevor Long, said was great to see that Henry has settled into his new home.
"He has always been a playful bear and painting is an extremely enriching activity for him," Mr. Long said. "Henry appears to be a talented painter with his first session producing an array of artistic pieces which would make for a very unique souvenir."
