13 Bears Retire from Research

Thirteen North American Black Bears were retired from research on September 1st, 2004. These bears had spent the past 12 years of their lives in research where they were confined to small cages.

Left: Baby in her indoor cage area at the research facility. Right: One wall lined with individual bear cages at the research facility.

After their arrival, the bears were introduced into their newly-built areas. In this area, they will be able to get to know each other and eventually be integrated together. Amazingly, George and UP (two males) seemed to really like each other and were allowed to spend some time together, playing. Eventually, these enclosures will be connected to a large 3-acre enclosure that will be their permanent home.