First ever Andean bear cub born in NYC zoo

NEW YORK (AP) - An "aww" inspiring bear cub is making his public debut in New York City.

The Wildlife Conservation Society's Queens Zoo says the 25-pound bundle of joy is being slowly acclimated to an outdoor exhibit. The Andean bear cub is still awaiting a name.

The ball of fluff has a white, freckled nose that offsets his dark coat.

He was born in the winter to 4-year-old Nicole and 6-year-old Bouba.

The Queens Zoo is breeding Andean bears as part of a cooperative program called the Species Survival Plan.

Zoo Director Scott Silver says the "little guy" is more than just "adorable." He is a symbol of what the world could lose when a species is in danger of extinction.