Stiftung für Bären, s a nonprofit foundation, established in 2004 by Aktion Bärenhilfswerk e.V., dedicated to protecting bears, wolves, and lynx. Through two specialized rescue parks – Alternativer Bärenpark Worbis and Alternativer Wolf- und Bärenpark Schwarzwald – they provide lifelong care for animals rescued from circuses, private collections, or outdated zoos.
Stiftung für Bären also serves as a center for research, education, and international consulting, contributing to over 30 scientific studies, training professionals in animal welfare, and advising more than 60 institutions worldwide.
Alternativer Bärenpark Worbis
- Founded: 1997 | Size: 8.5 ha
- Residents to date: 23 bears, 27 wolves, 2 lynx
- Typical arrivals: older bears (avg. 13.5 years) with previous trauma, arthritis, dental issues, and stress from poor living conditions.
- Lifespan: Average 25.5 years (max 37)
Alternativer Wolf- und Bärenpark Schwarzwald
- Opened: 2010 | Size: 10 ha
- Residents to date: 19 bears, 15 wolves, 4 lynx
- Typical arrivals: Older bears (avg. 18.3 years), often isolated or mistreated
- Lifespan: Average 30 years, reflecting high-quality care
Both parks offer natural enclosures, social opportunities, space for movement, and individualized veterinary care, giving animals a safe, stable home for life.
Funding and Support
Stiftung für Bären is entirely privately funded – no government or EU support. Their work is made possible by:
- Over 6,000 individual donors
- Associations, groups, and private companies
Income sources include:
- Animal adoptions – regular support for specific animals
- Legacies – gifts from supporters in their wills
- Donations – one-time or recurring gifts
- In-kind donations – food, equipment, tools
- Grants from supporting associations
- Visitor services – entrance fees and park activities
All finances are fully transparent in the annual reports, while donor privacy is strictly protected.
Why Bear Parks Matter
The bear parks from Stiftung für Bären allow animals that cannot return to the wild to live in environments that meet their natural needs:
- Expansive, natural enclosures
- Social or quiet zones as needed
- Space for natural behaviors
- Individual veterinary care
- Lifelong safe and stable homes
By combining practical care, research, education, and international consulting, Stiftung für Bären sets a modern standard for the rescue and protection of large carnivores worldwide.