Bringing polar bears back to the midwest

Posted: 11.18.2011 at 9:39 AM

In our Facebook Story of the Day for November 18, we're talking polar bear troubles in the midwest.

MGN

(AP) -- Missouri Congressman William Clay wants to bring polar bears back to Missouri ... to the St. Louis Zoo that is.

It's been two years since the last polar bear to be housed at the St. Louis Zoo passed away.

Currently there are federal restrictions against importing Artic creatures. Clay looks to get around those restrictions.

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that the Democratic congressman, after hearing a plea from the zoo, organized an alliance of House members. Those members asked the Interior Department to begin awarding import permits to accredited zoos that meet rigorous requirements.

Importing Arctic polar bears has been prohibited since 2008, when the Interior Department declared polar bears threatened under the Endangered Species Act.

The zoo has completed the design of a nearly $20 million polar bear exhibit and hopes to begin a research and breeding program.

Have you been to the St. Louis Zoo? What's your favorite animal there? Post your comments on our Facebook page here ... we'd love to hear from you!