Ribbon cutting - Turpentine Creek's New Bear Habitat

Description

The public is invited to attend the official grand
opening of Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge’s (TCWR) two new bear habitats Sunday, October 28, at 12 PM.

The two-year-long project began during TCWR’s Colorado Project when they took in 32 animals and rehomed another 83 to reputable sanctuaries across the country from a defunct pseudo-sanctuary. TCWR found themselves in need of extra space for the five bears they took in.

Animal curator, Emily McCormack, conceptualized the idea for habitats that used the natural layout of the Ozark land to incorporate native trees and plants and create a space similar to what a black bear might have in the wild. Construction began and was completed as the necessary
$150,000 was raised and through obstacles, such as weather and dips in man-power.

The habitats, which cover 2.5 and ¾ acres, will provide the bears with the opportunity to forage, nest, climb, and conduct natural behaviors while still receiving care from TCWR. Popper, a bear that once lived in the wild, will be introduced to three-year-old bears, Xena and Koda G., who have lived in captivity since birth. Russian brown bear, Huggy, along with black bears, Holli and Lolli, all of who have also been captive their whole lives, will be released into the other habitat.

TCWR hopes their supporters and members of the NWA community will join them for this momentous day that marks the start of a new life for their bear residents. Normal admission rates will apply during the grand opening.