Spectacled bears are the only bear species in South America and are classified as Vulnerable. Their welfare in captivity requires specialized attention to their unique ecology.
Spectacled bears in exhibits without adequate climbing structures cannot express essential arboreal behaviors. As largely herbivorous bears in a family dominated by omnivores, their nutritional requirements require careful attention to browse quality and variety. The solitary nature of this species means social housing requires careful management to avoid chronic aggression between incompatible individuals. Their relatively understudied nature compared to brown or polar bears means husbandry knowledge is less developed and welfare problems may go unrecognized. Conservation partnerships with Andean range countries provide meaningful purpose for zoo populations beyond individual welfare.