Sun bears are the smallest bear species and face severe threats from deforestation and the exotic pet trade. Their welfare in sanctuaries and zoos requires specialized care for these highly active, intelligent animals.
Sun bear welfare in captivity varies enormously between facilities. Bears rescued from the pet trade or bile farms often arrive with physical and psychological trauma requiring extensive rehabilitation. The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre represents a welfare exemplar, housing bears in large forested enclosures that allow near-natural behavior including climbing, foraging, and social interaction at individual pace. Sun bears in conventional zoo settings require complex enclosures with climbing opportunities, foraging enrichment, and den access. Their intelligent, curious nature means they need regular novel enrichment to prevent boredom-related stereotypic behaviors. Abolishing bear bile farming would eliminate one of the most severe welfare situations for bears globally.