Knut Grows Up

The fact that a polar bear cub is growing up might not be considered a news worthy item in most cities, but then this isn't most cities and this isn't most polar bear cubs.

Knut became one of Berlin's most talked about celebrities when his mother rejected him after birth and talk was rife that this cuddly fur-ball would have to be put down. Needless to say that thousands of sentimental youngsters were arm in arms, and Knut was saved - zookeeper Thomas Doerflein stepped up to raise the cub by hand.

Since then a surreal hysteria has surrounded Knut the polar bear with up to 15,000 visitors a day arriving at Berlin zoo for a glimpse of the toddler - who now has separate pen for his paparazzi who photograph him non-stop. In fact this precocious poser has already appeared in Vanity Fair with Leonardo Di Caprio and now has his own TV show, online blog with a possible book and film to be released.

How long this love affair with Berlin and her bear will last is unsure. Knut is growing up fast and is already causing his handler, Herr Doerflein, some problems during their twice daily playtimes. Weighing almost 30 kg now and with sharp teeth and claws, he can deliver a nasty nip and concerns have been raised how much longer such activities can go on before Knut poses a real danger to his father-figure.

Just goes to show adult polar bears simply aren't as cute as baby ones...