Bears in zoos have complex welfare needs requiring large spaces, enrichment and social management. Stereotypic behaviours indicate historical deprivation that modern zoos work to address.
Bear stereotypies developed in deprived environments are resistant to change even with improved conditions - they represent historical welfare deficits that persist. The best modern bear exhibits focus on positive welfare: providing daily foraging challenges, varied substrates, climbing structures and predictable-but-varied routine. Sun bears in particular are cognitively demanding and require complex daily enrichment. Sanctuaries rather than zoos are increasingly considered the preferred destination for rescued bears unable to return to the wild.