Explore the Wild: Black Bears
Located in Explore the Wild, the Museum’s black bear habitat is home to four American black bears (Ursus americanus). Two observation areas offer wide views of the black bear habitat. Visitor-controlled zoom cameras give guests the opportunity for a closer look at bear behavior.
Meet Our Bears
Mimi
Gus
Little
Just the Bear Facts
Each year, the Museum’s bears are fed approximately 4,000 pounds of bear chow, 500 pounds of nuts, and over 2,500 pounds of produce or dried fruit. In addition, they dig up bugs and eat grass and other plants in their yard. Our bears often become sluggish and sometimes sleep for several days during the winter, but it doesn’t actually get cold enough in North Carolina for them to hibernate. By the end of February or beginning of March, they are already starting to become more active!
Animal Enrichment at the Museum
Behavioral enrichment improves the lives of animals in human care by giving animals interesting stimuli and ways to express their natural behaviors. Wild black bears are always searching for a meal and will lick, bite, and claw to uncover new foods. The Museum’s animal care team provides enrichment foods each week so these bears always have something to explore. Treat-filled logs, frozen fruit, and even giant watermelons encourage behaviors these bears would use in the wild.
