Episode 30 – Bears Just Do Things For Bear Reasons: A Chat with Animal Behaviour Expert, Wildlife Consultant & President of the Bear Care Group, Jay Pratte (Part 1)
Episode 30 – Bears Just Do Things For Bear Reasons: A Chat with Animal Behaviour Expert, Wildlife Consultant & President of the Bear Care Group, Jay Pratte (Part 1)
Today’s guest, in the first of a two-part chat is Jay Pratte – and as you’ll hear he has worked extensively not just with bears but many animals over a 30 year career and among other things, he is President of the Bear Care Group. The Bear Care Group is all about sharing information, getting international bear carers together, through workshops and conferences, to share latest practices, research and learnings.
In this first part we talk about Jay’s background and how he got into animal care, and his commitment to making a difference for animals and people through advocacy, rescue efforts, and expert testimony in federal courts. We hear about his work with all eight extant bear species, including pandas at Zoo Atlanta and in China, the challenges of being a Zoo Director, as well as the importance of positive reinforcement training in animal care, with Jay sharing examples of successful training with bears and other animals. We also explore the role of zoos and sanctuaries in conservation, with Jay emphasizing the need for reputable facilities to lead by example and educate the public about wildlife and stewardship. That’s before we even get to the Bear Care Group in the following part!
LINKS:
Remembering the Woman Who Helped Bears in Distress | National Geographic
Bear Care Group| Bear Care Group |
The Bear Den Artwork is by Asha Kaur
Contact: pstubley@americanbear.org
Find out more: American Bear Association
Facebook– Instagram: @vinceshutewildlife
Music from #Uppbeat
https://uppbeat.io/t/reakt-music/deep-stone
License code: XXHZEJ6T6ABBDMHN
