Bare it all: Conservation of the Andean Bear

The goals of this project are: characterize critical aspects of the Andean bear’s foraging, mating, dispersal, and reproductive ecology, to document how construction of the Interoceanic Highway across intact forest will affect Andean bears; perform the first parasitological survey of a population of wild Andean bears; train Peruvian students and assistants in field and laboratory research; and improve captive husbandry of Andean bears through health research on captive bears.

We are using noninvasive methods (fecal collections, camera and hair “traps”) for analysis of genetics, endocrinology, diet, and space and habitat use. We are studying Andean bears at the San Diego Zoo and zoos in Peru to develop field protocols, establish baseline endocrine levels, and complete a health survey.

This work will provide us with new comprehensive knowledge of the conservation biology and ecology of Andean bears, generate greater awareness of bear and habitat conservation issues, improve conservation planning in Peru, and train a cadre of Peruvian conservation scientists. To this end, we will train and mentor Peruvians in field and lab techniques in conservation science. We will work with husbandry staff to assess and improve captive husbandry in Peru, and work with our collaborators to foster conservation among local people.

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