Spectacled Bear Conservation Society
The Spectacled Bear Conservation Society (SBCS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection of the spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus), also known as the Andean bear—the only bear species native to South America. This species is critically endangered due to habitat loss, poaching, and human interference in its natural environment.
The organization was founded with the goal of protecting and conserving the spectacled bear and its habitats, which span across the mountainous regions of Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia.
Main Goals and Activities:
Habitat conservation – SBCS works to protect and restore tropical forests, páramo ecosystems, and mountain landscapes where spectacled bears live. The organization focuses on maintaining connected ecosystems that allow bears to move freely across their natural range.
Research and monitoring – SBCS conducts field research to better understand spectacled bear behavior, population numbers, and ecological needs. They use camera traps and GPS tracking to study bear movements and habits, helping to identify conservation priorities and threats.
Combatting poaching and human-wildlife conflict – Spectacled bears are threatened by poaching for their fur and body parts, as well as conflicts with agriculture when they come into contact with humans. SBCS works with local communities and authorities to prevent human-bear conflicts and reduce poaching through education and awareness campaigns.
Education and community involvement – The organization educates local communities and schoolchildren about the importance of protecting the spectacled bear and its habitats. They also help communities develop sustainable livelihoods, reducing the pressure on natural resources and supporting local economies through nature-based solutions.
Support for sustainable tourism – SBCS promotes ecotourism as a way to raise awareness about spectacled bear conservation. They support tourism projects that are environmentally friendly and provide economic benefits to local communities.
Givskud Zoo Nature Foundation – We support the protection and conservation of spectacled bears in South America through the Spectacled Bear Conservation Society project. Our donation of 10 GPS collars provides the organization with valuable data on how bears move in and out of protected areas. This knowledge is crucial for developing effective conservation strategies. The spectacled bear is the only bear species in South America, and it is classified as vulnerable.
Read more:
Website: https://sbc-peru.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sbcsocietyperu/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spectacledbearconservation/
