Zoo

Zoo Andean Spectacled Bear Welfare and Enrichment

Spectacled bears are South America's only native bear species and benefit from complex enrichment that reflects their flexible omnivory and climbing behaviour.

Key Facts

Spectacled bears are largely herbivorous, feeding on bromeliads, fruit, and cacti
They are skilled climbers and use elevated platforms and trees for foraging and resting
Zoo spectacled bears show significant individual variation in enrichment preferences
They are classified as Vulnerable due to habitat loss in Andean cloud forest

Welfare Considerations

Foraging enrichment that reflects their omnivorous diet and climbing enrichment that satisfies arboreal tendencies significantly improve welfare. Individual preference assessments should inform enrichment programmes for each animal.

What You Can Do

Support Andean cloud forest conservation that protects spectacled bear habitat
Advocate for climbing and foraging enrichment standards for spectacled bears
Engage with zoo welfare assessments that measure individual bear welfare states