Springfield families enjoyed a festive start to the holiday season on Saturday as Dickerson Park Zoo hosted its eighth annual Beary Happy Thanksgiving celebration. The centerpiece of the event was Yona, the zoo’s resident black bear, who was treated to a special buffet of pumpkins, apples and other bear‑friendly treats.
Visitors watch Yona feast from a new boardwalk
Guests gathered on the zoo’s newly constructed bear boardwalk, giving them a safe, up‑close view of Yona as he sampled the holiday spread. The boardwalk, opened earlier this year, has quickly become a favorite spot for families who want to observe the animals without disturbing them.
“We have people that have been here for several years, and they like to show us pictures from years past,” said Joey Powell, a longtime caretaker at Dickerson Park Zoo. “And so they recognize that it’s happening and come out just for this.”
Yona’s seasonal torpor explained
While Yona will not enter full hibernation this winter, zoo staff explained that he will enter a period of reduced activity known as torpor. During torpor, bears lower their body temperature and metabolic rate, allowing them to conserve energy while still remaining alert enough to eat occasional treats like the pumpkin pieces offered at the event.
“It’s a natural part of a bear’s yearly cycle,” Powell added. “Providing a small, nutritious snack helps keep Yona healthy during this slower period.”
Zoo hours and holiday closure
Dickerson Park Zoo remains open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. throughout the week, but will be closed on Thanksgiving Day to allow staff and animals a quiet day of rest. The zoo encourages visitors to plan their trips accordingly and to take advantage of the many educational programs offered year‑round.
In addition to the bear boardwalk, the zoo featured seasonal decorations, a photo‑op area for families, and a selection of locally sourced snacks for guests. The event underscores the zoo’s commitment to providing family‑friendly, educational experiences that celebrate both wildlife and community traditions.
Looking ahead
Zoo officials said the Thanksgiving celebration is part of a broader effort to engage Springfield residents with the natural world. Upcoming events include a spring wildlife walk, a summer “Critter Carnival,” and a fall “Harvest Festival” that will showcase the zoo’s native species.
For more information about upcoming programs or to donate to the zoo’s conservation initiatives, visitors can check the Dickerson Park Zoo website or follow the zoo’s social media channels.
Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.
