Durrell celebrate arrival of Raymi

Wednesday 08 June 2016

The Andean Bear Cub at Durrell has been named “Raymi” – the Quechua word for “celebration” – after a public competition that saw 200 suggestions flood in.

The bear, the first to be born at Durrell in over 20 years, has been nameless since he arrived on 3rd January.

Durrell have also raised £1,525 from the competition, because every entrant had to donate to take part.

Senior mammal keeper Jenna Hunt said: “Raymi means celebration in Quechua, which we felt was very appropriate as he is the first cub born at the Park in over 20 years.

“Mani, which means peanut, was a close second.

“We decided that although it was cute, it might not suit him once he is fully grown! Ukumari, another name for the spectacled bear, was also fairly popular.”

She added that the new arrival was getting along well.

“When the bears are outside, Raymi is up the top of every tree he can get to, often chasing the crows!” she said.

“He is now much more confident and loves to interact with keepers through the mesh inside, but like any youngster he still needs frequent naps.”

The name “Raymi” was chosen by two entrants to Durrell’s competition – Azlanna Coote from St Lawrence, and another entrant from Australia.

Mrs Coote said that she was thrilled to have helped name Raymi.

She said: “I’ve been going to Durrell since I was a little girl. I’ve actually never won anything, so to win something for the first time from Durrell is really special. I love the bears and am absolutely delighted.”