Chester Zoo is home to two fascinating species of bears – the Andean bear and the Sun bear. These captivating creatures offer visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the diverse world of bears and the conservation efforts to protect them.

Andean Bears at Chester Zoo

The Andean bears, also known as spectacled bears, are the only surviving species of bear native to South America. These omnivorous animals are found in the Andes Mountains, where they play a crucial role in the ecosystem. At Chester Zoo, the Andean bears are part of a specialized breeding program, with Oberon and Pacha carefully selected as a suitable pair to help boost the endangered population.

Adaptations and Behavior

Andean bears are perfectly adapted for life in the Andes. They have non-retractable claws that allow them to climb trees with ease, sometimes reaching heights of up to 13,000 feet in search of their preferred diet of fruit, berries, and honey. Their powerful jaws and large paws with sharp claws also enable them to tear open tree trunks in search of insects.

Conservation Efforts

The Andean bear population is estimated to number fewer than 10,000 individuals in the wild, making them a vulnerable species. Chester Zoo supports a community-based project in Bolivia that aims to protect Andean bears and their forest home, funded by organizations such as the Whitley Fund For Nature, Darwin Initiative, and Tierpark Berlin.

Sun Bears at Chester Zoo

The Sun bears, also known as the “honey bear” or “dog-face bear,” are the smallest of the eight species of bear. These remarkable creatures are found in the rainforests and montane forests of Southeast Asia, where they face threats from the illegal wildlife trade.

Unique Characteristics

Sun bears are easily recognizable by the golden markings on their chests, which resemble the rising sun. They have incredibly long tongues, measuring up to 25 cm, which they use to reach insects and honey deep inside tree trunks. Their powerful jaws and large claws allow them to tear open trees in search of their favorite foods.

Conservation Challenges

Sun bears are under threat from the illegal wildlife trade, as they are often used in traditional Asian medicines, despite scientific evidence showing they have no medicinal value. Chester Zoo works alongside TRAFFIC, an organization that monitors the illegal wildlife trade, to help protect Sun bears and other endangered species.

Visiting Chester Zoo’s Bears

Visitors to Chester Zoo can observe the Andean bears and Sun bears in their carefully designed habitats, which aim to replicate their natural environments as closely as possible. The zoo also offers various adoption packages for both species, allowing visitors to contribute to the conservation efforts and support the zoo’s work in protecting these remarkable animals.

References:
– Welcome Obe! A rare Andean bear vital to his species’ survival
– Andean Bear
– Sun Bear
– Chester Zoo welcomes new sun bear family
– Chester Zoo’s sun bears: The smallest bears in the world