Literally, is there anything cuter than this Polar Bear? I mean I thought Butterstick was cute and all, but I think the Eisbär totally wins. In case you haven't heard, Knut was born at the Berlin Zoo in December, and his mother rejected him. Then some crazy animal rights nutcases said the bear would become too human if he was raised by caretakers and should therefore be put to sleep. Media Frenzy ensues. My two favorite headlines include: "Kill this bear? Are you KNUTS?!?" (AP) and "Kill Baby Polar Bear, Animal Activists Say" (ABC) Anyway, this story amuses me for two reasons. First, did anyone really think they would actually put the bear to sleep? It's Germany! Like they need to add insult to injury by offing baby polar bears. Second, it takes place at my beloved Zoo Berlin.
During my semester abroad, whenever I needed a break from my studies of genocide, xenophobia and all things evil; I would hop on the U9 Ubahn line and head to the Zoo. It was comforting. I'd look at all the animals and feel a sense of warmth and happiness. Who could be in a bad mood while looking at Elephants? It is one of my favorite places. I'm glad Knut gets to call it home. I hope he's happy there. I know I was.
