Barri bear’s claws were proving a problem for his carers - he was too old to wear them down naturally, and regular anaesthetics were a no-go.

The answer was a structured training programme for Barri using what’s called “operant conditioning principles”. 

Assistant Bear Manager Shi Xueliang, better known to staff as Rocky, has slowly been training Barri to assist in his own nail trimming.

Animals Asia China Bear and Vet Team Director Nic Field explained:

“Behaviours like this take time and patience from the trainer. The bear needs not only to learn to trust their trainer - but also to understand what is expected of them and then be willing to cooperate. Rocky and Barri have developed a wonderful bond, and Rocky is able to ask Barri to come forward in his den, sit holding the bars and allow Rocky to trim his claws.

“What’s incredible is not just the capacity and expertise of staff to be able to develop this co-operation but also Barri’s amazing trust and being so responsive to Rocky’s help. This bear spent many years caged but he has learned to trust again. Seeing Rocky and Barri together is so inspiring.”

BACK