Zoo Bear Welfare: Hibernation and Natural Behaviour Expression

Overview of bear welfare in zoos, including hibernation needs and environmental enrichment.

Key Facts

Some bear species undergo hibernation or torpor, with welfare implications for zoo management
Bears are highly intelligent and need complex enrichment to prevent stereotypies
Foraging enrichment mimicking natural food-searching behaviour is a welfare priority
Access to water features is an important welfare need for some bear species
Bear enclosure design is evolving to meet better understanding of welfare needs

Welfare Considerations

Zoo bear welfare requires understanding species-specific needs including hibernation physiology, foraging ecology, and social organisation. Inadequate enrichment leads to stereotypic pacing and other welfare indicators. Foraging enrichment that engages bears' natural food-finding strategies provides meaningful activity and welfare benefit. Enclosure design for bears is evolving, with larger spaces, complex terrain, and water features increasingly considered welfare requirements.

What You Can Do

Support zoos that provide evidence-based bear enrichment and welfare assessment
Engage with zoo bear welfare through BIAZA and bear conservation organisations
Donate to in-situ bear habitat conservation as complementary to zoo welfare