Sun bears are the smallest bear species and present unique welfare challenges in captivity, requiring specialized husbandry that reflects their natural foraging and social behaviors.
Sun bears have complex foraging behaviors that are difficult to adequately provide for in captivity. Stereotypic behaviors including repetitive pacing and weaving are common in bears with inadequate environmental complexity. High-quality welfare provision requires enclosures with climbing structures, substrate for digging, diverse food presentation methods including puzzle feeders, and opportunities for tool use. Bears rescued from the pet trade require specialized behavioral rehabilitation that acknowledges the long-term impacts of early social and environmental deprivation. Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre provides an internationally recognized model for welfare-focused rescue and rehabilitation.