Spectacled bears are South America's only bear species and are threatened by habitat loss. Zoo breeding programs and welfare management support conservation while meeting this species' complex needs.
Zoo spectacled bear welfare centers on their arboreal frugivorous ecology. Exhibits must provide robust climbing structures capable of supporting a 175 kg bear at significant height. Foraging enrichment using fruit, bromeliads, and varied browse engages natural feeding behavior. As solitary animals, individual housing with controlled introductions for breeding is appropriate. Pool access supports natural behavior and thermoregulation. Their intelligence requires varied enrichment including problem-solving feeders and novel items to prevent boredom in captive settings. Health management includes attention to dental health and obesity risk from captive diets. Breeding coordination through international studbooks maintains genetic diversity in the captive population.