One dirty polar bear :)
Polar Bear Cam, Courtesy of Ouwenhand Cam
This polar bear seems to be exhibiting behavior akin to Nemo (beluga). The very first thing I noticed was another appearance of "circuiting". Since I've started observing Nemo, I've noticed a very distinct and repetitive pattern of swimming in the same pattern. I'm forced to believe this polar bear is also exhibiting this sort of behavior. Obviously, I don't know how extreme the case is, as I've only observed this bear once.
You can see as the bear (let's call him Nanuk), comes from the right, towards the log blocking his path.
Notice, how Nanuk now pivots, slightly, so that his forelegs are facing the camera. He now stands there for a few seconds.
Before, turning on his heel to head back to the right of the screen.
After reaching this point, Nanuk, now repeats the pivoting action, to return back to the log. Pretty convincing pacing behavior- I'm not sure if you could argue otherwise.
Walking, walking walking,
Now, turn and repeat.
I also need to mention, that Nanuk's pace is relatively lethargic, which also adds to the likelihood that this is another case of obsessive compulsive disorders in captive animals.
This pacing behavior really makes you wonder about the intelligence of animals. Nanuk's exhibit, as well as Nemo's seems to be more than sufficient to provide them with enough space and anything they need, yet they seem to notice quite profoundly that it isn't anything like their 'true home', and thus they develop these sorts of behaviors.
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