Sloth bears are unique, nocturnal insectivores native to South Asia whose welfare in captivity requires specialist diets, climbing opportunities, and protection from daytime visitor disturbance. Their conservation status is Vulnerable and deteriorating.
Sloth bear welfare in zoos is shaped by mismatches between their natural behaviour and typical zoo management. As nocturnal foragers, sloth bears in day-visitor facilities often pace during peak hours — a stereotypy indicating frustration of natural activity patterns. Their dietary specialisation requires more than standard carnivore-diet supplements: foraging for insects and honey should be the primary feeding enrichment mode. Many facilities have adopted honey- and insect-filled logs that allow suction feeding behaviour, with measurable welfare benefits. The legacy of dancing bear rescue has also contributed significantly to understanding sloth bear psychological trauma recovery, informing rehabilitation protocols now applied in zoo settings. Off-exhibit access to quiet areas during daylight hours is a minimum welfare requirement.