Spectacled bears are the only bear species native to South America. Their welfare in zoos depends on meeting complex cognitive needs, providing appropriate climbing structures, and managing social dynamics carefully.
Spectacled bears in zoos require robust climbing structures and varied foraging opportunities to prevent boredom and stereotypic behaviour. Their solitary tendencies mean social housing decisions must be made carefully — forced cohabitation can cause chronic stress. Foraging enrichment that replicates natural food-seeking behaviour significantly reduces stereotypy. Well-managed zoos with naturalistic enclosures contribute to captive breeding programmes for this declining species, but welfare outcomes vary considerably between institutions.