Ben the Bear Arrives at the ABQ BioPark
Albuquerque, N.M. – Ben, the 4-year-old Andean bear, has found a new home at the ABQ BioPark. The Andean bear, also called the spectacled bear for its distinctive facial features resembling eyeglasses, is a new species at the ABQ BioPark. Ben is settling into a new habitat outfitted with a climbing structure and a water feature — a perfect environment for this adventurous species.
Ben gained notoriety in February 2023 due to his extremely curious and explorative nature at the St. Louis Zoo where he managed to go on a couple of self-guided tours! He was temporarily moved to Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville, Texas, in June 2023 until a suitable long-term home for him could be found. Fortunately, the ABQ BioPark moved its Malayan tiger into the new award-winning Asia area last year, opening up this former tiger habitat as a suitable environment for this curious and agile bear.
“Our BioPark continues to deliver in giving families unique opportunities to experience wildlife in awe-inspiring ways,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Like the new Asia and Australia habitats, the welcome addition of Ben will provide Burqueños with an unforgettable experience, fostering deeper connections with natural wonders from around the world."
The team at the ABQ BioPark has transformed the habitat into a vertical jungle gym, perfectly suited for Ben’s natural climbing instincts. With elevated platforms that allow him to perch high above the ground, Ben will have a “bear’s-eye” view of the surrounding park, offering both stimulation and a new perspective, while the water feature adds another layer of enrichment for the water loving bear. As Ben loves to dig, a dedicated space is available where his animal care staff can bury enrichment to further engage his natural foraging behaviors.
Members of the Association of Zoos and Aquarium (AZA) Andean Bear Species Survival Plan and the AZA Bear Taxon Advisory Group were consulted on the decision to move Ben.
“Ben is especially smart and loves to explore, so the verticality of his new space was a key factor in the habitat design,” said Lynn Tupa, ABQ BioPark associate director. “We wanted to give him a stimulating environment that reflects the natural behaviors of Andean bears, who love to climb. This space allows him to reach new heights—literally.”
ABQ BioPark’s animal care staff are planning more ways to keep this perpetually curious bear mentally satiated, including randomized feeding schedules and training programs.
Andean bears, native to South America, are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, with only around 10,000 left in the wild. The ABQ BioPark hopes Ben’s presence will raise awareness about the conservation efforts needed to protect his species.
For additional updates about animals, events, conservation initiatives, and other happenings at ABQ BioPark, follow its social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and X, and visit cabq.gov/artsculture/biopark.
MEDIA: Photos and b-roll will continue to be updated throughout the day. A BioPark representative will be available for sound from 2:30 p.m.- 3:30 p.m. Monday, Sept 30.
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About the ABQ BioPark
The ABQ BioPark is a living environmental museum that protects the natural world and connects communities with nature. It is a refuge for thousands of animals and plants cared for by zoological, marine and botanical experts who lead significant science-based conservation work in New Mexico and around the world. The BioPark consists of four distinct areas: ABQ BioPark Aquarium, ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, ABQ BioPark Zoo, and Tingley Beach. It is an accredited, accessible facility that has earned the American Humane Certified™ seal of approval for its excellent treatment of animals and commitment to conservation.