Bears in captivity frequently develop severe stereotypic behaviours due to insufficient space and cognitive stimulation, making them one of the most welfare-challenged groups of zoo animals.
Bear welfare in captivity requires space at a scale that few zoos can provide and cognitive complexity that demands ongoing investment in enrichment. The most honest assessment is that many zoo bears currently suffer welfare deficits that enrichment can reduce but not eliminate. The highest welfare outcomes for surplus or rescued bears are achieved in dedicated sanctuaries with large naturalistic areas. For species like polar bears, the welfare case for zoo keeping is increasingly questioned by welfare scientists. Consumer preference for accredited facilities with transparent welfare monitoring creates incentives for continued improvement.