Agra Bear Rescue Facility, Wildlife conservation area in Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, India
The Agra Bear Rescue Facility is a sanctuary within the Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary featuring wooded enclosures with ponds and natural vegetation where rescued sloth bears live and recover. The grounds contain separate living areas and rehabilitation spaces designed to mimic forest environments and support the bears' physical healing.
Wildlife SOS founded this facility in 1999 in partnership with the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department to stop the centuries-old practice of training bears to dance in India. The project emerged to address animal suffering and create a new path away from this historical tradition.
The facility provides work for members of the Kalandar community, shifting from their ancestral practice of animal handling toward modern conservation roles. This transformation gives people dignity while protecting bears from harm.
Visitors can observe the rescued sloth bears in their enclosures during guided tours led by knowledgeable staff who share the animals' stories. Morning hours are best for viewing since the bears are more active when temperatures are cooler.
The facility's medical center has specialized equipment including X-ray machines and dental suites that treat infections and injuries from the bears' previous captivity and abuse. This clinical capability allows staff to provide intensive medical care during the bears' first months of rescue.
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