Behavior patterns of captive Malayan sun bears (Helarctos malayanus) at a rehabilitation center in Peninsular Malaysia

Abstract

Achieving good welfare of Malayan sun bears (Helarctos malayanus) in captivity through understanding behavioral aspects is crucial in providing improved captive management for conservation purposes. The Malayan sun bear is the smallest bear species and remains the least studied member of the Ursid family. We investigated the behavior patterns of 11 captive sun bears (four cubs, four sub-adults, and three adults) at different time periods (morning, afternoon, and evening). Different behavior pattern were observed between individual bears, and a strong interaction between age grouped and type of behavior were also noticed. We also found that all bear age groups exhibited higher normal behavior than stereotypic behavior. Oral stereotypies were mainly exhibited by cubs, and their locomotor stereotypies were slightly higher in frequency compared to sub-adult and adult individuals. Anticipatory behavior toward keepers during husbandry activities and their potential conflict background may represent a major factor leading to these highly stereotypic behaviors, particularly in cubs and during morning sessions. We suggest that stereotypy can be minimized by providing food or creative tool enrichments to divert the attention of bears from keepers. Minimal stereotypic behavior is crucial in the captive management and conservation of Malayan sun bear, particularly when selecting individual bear to release back to wild habitat.