Black Bear Cub Feeding: Extended Version

2019 note: In 2013, The Center began construction on a two-acre facility to raise orphaned and injured Black Bear cubs. As the facility was being built, we admitted a record number of cubs! The videos from this year do not reflect current practices rearing orphaned cubs; we had to make do with what we had that year, since no other facility in the state is able to take bear cubs. Check our current 2016 and beyond bear videos to see our current practice and facilities!

During the spring and summer of 2013, the Wildlife Center of Virginia will be caring for many bear cubs. This video [shot with a GoPro Hero 3] is of a feeding session for six of the cubs. Because the cubs are different weights and sizes, each formula amount is calculated for each individual bear, and the feedings are carefully monitored by the staff. The larger cubs are offered formula twice a day [cubs #13-0469 and #13-0470]; the smallest cubs are offered formula three times a day [four cubs]. At each feeding session, two students (or staff) enter the enclosure. Two cubs are fed at a time; the others are temporarily enclosed in large airline crates in the main area of the bear pen. Once everyone is fed, the cubs are allowed access to the entire Bear Pen 1 enclosure again.