Andean Bears are coming to Knowsley Safari this Easter

Andean Bears – the species that inspired Paddington Bear – will be putting a spring in visitors’ steps at Knowsley Safari this Easter.

‘Bear Country’ on the Foot Safari, home to Bahia and Chui, will be opening to the public on Good Friday, March 29, 2024, making Knowsley Safari an exciting family day out during the school holidays and beyond.

Bahia and Chui’s arrival also marks the start of the Safari’s conservation campaign to protect the plight of the Andean Bear, also known as the Spectacled Bear, due to their facial markings. Working in partnership with Peru-based Spectacled Bear Conservation Society, the campaign officially launches on World Bear Day, this Saturday 23^rd March 2024.

Mostly found in South America’s high elevation humid forests including Peru and Bolivia, Andean Bears are unfortunately at risk of extinction and listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, with potentially as few as 2,500 mature individuals remaining. The bears are under threat from habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict, including poaching.

Knowsley Safari is hopeful its new campaign will help conserve and protect the future of these placid-natured bears by providing support such as provision of equipment and educational materials. Guests will be able to learn more about the Andean Bears at Bear Country, which is equipped with interactive learning opportunities and informative signage and visitors will instantly notice the difference between the breeding pair, as at 140kg, male Chui is twice the weight and size of female Bahia, who weighs a modest 69kg.

Bahia and Chui arrived from Jersey Zoo, where they lived for ten years. The bears’ new habitat at Knowsley Safari has platforms for them to play and feed on and plenty of trees, which they enjoy climbing – they’re also loving chomping on bamboo sticks filled with honey and peanut butter and cracking open coconuts! And after a busy day, Bahia and Chui can recharge in their house with wood wool-filled nest boxes.

Lucy Petrie, carnivore animal manager at Knowsley, said:

“We’re really pleased with how quickly Bahia and Chui have settled in at Knowsley and we’re looking forward to educating visitors about these very special bears.

“During the Easter holidays, we’ll be offering interactive experiences including talks, touch tables and activities to educate and inspire everyone who visits. Guests will be able to observe Bahia and Chui while learning about the conservation methods we’re using to help protect their relatives in the wild.”

It’s an action-packed bear-themed family day out at Knowsley Safari this Easter as guests will also be able to take part in an Easter-themed Bear Hunt, including puzzles, photo opportunities and prizes – all included in the main admission price.

Tickets cost from £22.50 per person, with the best prices available when booking in advance.