Zoo Animals

Zoo Polar Bear Welfare in Warmer Climates

Polar bear welfare in zoos outside Arctic climates requires specific management to address thermoregulation challenges and cognitive stimulation needs.

Key Facts

Polar bears in zoos outside Arctic regions experience thermal stress in summer
Ice provision, chilled pools, and shade reduce heat stress
Polar bears are highly intelligent and require complex cognitive enrichment
Stereotypic pacing is common in polar bears with inadequate enrichment and space
Some zoos have phased out polar bears due to welfare concerns

Welfare Considerations

Polar bear welfare in non-Arctic climates involves a fundamental environmental mismatch. Thermal stress, inadequate space for natural travel behaviour, and inadequate cognitive stimulation all compromise welfare. Zoos maintaining polar bears have an ethical obligation to provide chilled environments, large areas, and intensive enrichment.

What You Can Do

Support zoos that provide large, complex environments for polar bears
Advocate for welfare standards that consider whether polar bears are appropriate zoo species
Donate to Arctic habitat and climate action protecting wild polar bear populations