Families and other park visitors will be able to continue to enjoy seeing two aging black bears at Shubenacadie Provincial Wildlife Park.

“Many people expressed concern for these bears, so I am pleased that veterinarian test results show their health is good enough that they can continue living at the park,” said Zach Churchill, Minister of Natural Resources.

“Our park staff is very observant of their needs, and actions taken by staff last fall helped to improve the bears’ health over the winter.”

Last fall, park staff noticed the bears were losing weight so they increased calories in their diet and prevented hibernation to counter the weight loss problem. The weight loss was reversed.

A veterinarian’s report shows the 21-year-old female black bears have evidence of arthritis and possible diabetes. Park officials will continue monitoring them and making their best efforts to treat those conditions with diet and medications. The bears will remain in their usual enclosure for park visitors to see and enjoy them for the next year.

All older animals at the park receive regular medical examinations, when possible. The bears will be assessed again next year unless changes in their health require intervention sooner.

The Shubenacadie Provincial Wildlife Park is open daily, 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., until Oct. 15. Learn more about the park at www.wildlifepark.novascotia.ca/ .

Source: Release