Spectacled bears — the only bear species native to South America — have specific welfare needs related to their forest habitat, climbing behavior, and omnivorous diet.
Spectacled bear welfare in zoo settings requires exhibit conditions that accommodate their arboreal and omnivorous ecology. As forest bears adapted to climbing trees for bromeliads and fruit, spectacled bears need substantial vertical structure — exhibits without climbing opportunities prevent a fundamental behavioral drive. Their dietary breadth in the wild — from bromeliads and cacti to small vertebrates — creates opportunities for diverse, naturalistic enrichment feeding that supports behavioral welfare. Spectacled bear stereotypic behavior in inadequate exhibits is well-documented and indicates chronic welfare problems from spatial and behavioral restriction. Conservation value is genuine — these are threatened animals whose captive populations contribute to species knowledge and genetic preservation.