The Houston Zoo is home to a captivating collection of black bears, including the charismatic Claud, a two-year-old bear who made his debut in 2022, and the dynamic duo, Belle and Willow, two five-year-old bears who have been delighting visitors since 2013. Join us as we dive into the fascinating lives of these remarkable creatures and uncover the conservation efforts that the Houston Zoo is spearheading to protect their wild counterparts.
Claud the Black Bear: A Curious Newcomer
At just two years old, Claud is the newest addition to the Houston Zoo’s black bear family. Rescued by the Nevada Department of Wildlife after being spotted near campsites, Claud has found a new home in the Hamill Foundation Black Bear Exhibit, where he can explore his surroundings, play in the pools, and engage with the enrichment provided by his dedicated animal care team.
Belle and Willow: The Dynamic Duo
Joining Claud in the Hamill Foundation Black Bear Exhibit are the five-year-old bears, Belle and Willow. Rescued by the US Fish and Wildlife Service after being fed by patrons of a restaurant, these two bears have been captivating visitors with their playful antics and unique personalities. Belle, the larger of the two, is often seen splashing in the pool and engaging in friendly rough-housing with Willow, who enjoys exploring the exhibit’s various enrichment opportunities.
Conservation Efforts at the Houston Zoo
The Houston Zoo is committed to protecting black bears and their habitats, both in captivity and in the wild. Through various initiatives, the zoo is leading the charge in conservation efforts:
Paper Reduction
The Houston Zoo has reduced its paper usage by over 50% since 2016 by buying in bulk and using 100% recycled content paper, helping to preserve the forests that black bears call home.
Texas Black Bear Reporting Signs
The zoo has designed and distributed signs throughout the state of Texas, encouraging residents to report sightings of black bears, which helps researchers better understand the species’ population and distribution.
Recycled Toilet Paper
In a move to further reduce its environmental impact, the Houston Zoo uses 100% recycled content toilet paper in all of its restrooms.
Paperless Ticketing
Guests can contribute to the conservation of black bears by using digital passes and going paperless for billing, reducing the demand for paper-based products.
Visitor Information
The black bear exhibit at the Houston Zoo is located across from the African lions, and visitors can learn more about these fascinating creatures through the following facts:
- Scientific Name: Ursus Americanus
- Range: Throughout Alaska, Canada, parts of the continental United States, and Mexico
- Cool Animal Fact: Bears in northern ranges hibernate in winter, while those in the south may remain active or go through a winter dormancy period.
How You Can Help
As a visitor to the Houston Zoo, there are several ways you can contribute to the conservation of black bears:
- Use Recycled Paper Products: By using less paper or recycled-content paper products, fewer trees are cut down, helping to save black bears in the wild.
- Go Paperless: Consider going paperless for billing or when purchasing tickets for your next visit to the Zoo.
By taking these simple steps, you can make a meaningful impact on the preservation of black bears and their habitats.