Bear Necessities Month

Categories:: Animal
Tags:: Awareness Conservation Wildlife
Where:: United Kingdom
Date change rule:: Every September
Holiday emoji:: 🐻

Bear Necessities Month champions the protection of bears and their natural habitats every September. This month-long observance, inspired by ‘The Jungle Book,’ encourages global participation in conservation efforts. Discover ways to contribute to bear welfare, support vital research, and raise awareness for these magnificent creatures.

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Platforms
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History
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Businesses
FAQs
Importance
Observe

Expected Bear Necessities Month Deals

Throughout Bear Necessities Month, organizations and brands dedicated to wildlife conservation often launch fundraising campaigns and awareness drives. Look for opportunities to donate to groups like the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), Defenders of Wildlife, and the International Bear Foundation, which work tirelessly to protect bear populations and their environments. Many outdoor retailers such as Patagonia and The North Face may highlight their sustainable practices or partner with conservation groups for donation matches on specific products. Additionally, local zoos and wildlife sanctuaries might host special events or educational programs. We will update this page with confirmed live initiatives as September approaches.

Platform Guide for Bear Necessities Month

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #BearNecessitiesMonth. Share stunning photos or videos of bears in their natural habitats, or highlight conservation efforts you support.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #BearNecessitiesMonth. Tweet facts about bear species, threats they face, and actionable steps people can take to help.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #BearNecessitiesMonth. Join discussions on local conservation groups, share educational resources, and promote fundraising events.

Bear Necessities Month Hero

Dr. Jane Goodall

Dr. Jane Goodall, a world-renowned primatologist and anthropologist, is best known for her groundbreaking work with chimpanzees. Her holistic approach to conservation, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all species and their habitats, has inspired generations of wildlife advocates. While her primary focus is primates, her broader message of protecting biodiversity and advocating for ethical treatment of animals profoundly influences bear conservation efforts globally, making her an inspirational figure for this month.

History of Bear Necessities Month

In 1950, the World Federation for the Protection of Animals (W.F.P.A.) was formed, while the International Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (I.S.P.A.) was established nine years later. In 1981, the two organizations, aiming to protect wildlife, joined to form the World Society For the Protection of Animals (W.S.P.A.), which was later renamed World Animal Protection (WAP) in 2014.

Ever since its formation, the organization has labored to protect the welfare of wild animals and birds. During the Haiti earthquake, WAP saved and treated about 70,000 animals. It also trained vets and has taken steps to prevent animal trafficking in various countries, like India, Thailand, El Salvador, and many more. In 1964, Operation Gwamba was initiated, and about 10,000 animals were saved during the floods in Suriname.

‘The Bare Necessities’ was written by Terry Gilkyson and sung by Phil Harris and Bruce Reitherman. It was featured in the animated movie “The Jungle Book.” To protect bears, WPA created Bear Necessities Month in collaboration with PAWAV, an organization dedicated to providing animal cruelty–free products. Bear Necessities Month is an attempt to draw people’s attention to the increasing threat faced by bears. It encourages people to do their part in protecting these wild beasts by contributing and raising awareness about the issue.

Bear Necessities Month timeline

1950

The W.F.P.A. is Born

The World Federation for the Protection of Animals is established.

1964

Animals are Rescued from Floods

Operation Gwamba is started, and over 10,000 animals are saved from the flood in Suriname.

1981

The W.F.P.A. and I.S.P.A. Merge

The World Society for the Protection of Animals (W.S.P.A.) is formed.

2012

Bear Necessities Month

Bear Necessities Month is initiated to protect bears and their natural habitat.

How Businesses Can Celebrate Bear Necessities Month

Local businesses can honor Bear Necessities Month by raising awareness and supporting conservation. Pet supply stores could highlight bear-safe food storage solutions for campers, while outdoor gear shops might host educational workshops on responsible wildlife viewing. Restaurants could feature bear-themed specials and donate a portion of proceeds to a local wildlife sanctuary or a national bear conservation fund. Partnering with a local nature center for a fundraising event or promoting sustainable practices that protect natural habitats are also impactful ways to participate.

Bear Necessities Month FAQs

When is Bear Necessities Month?

Bear Necessities Month runs throughout September 2026, from Tuesday, September 1, to Wednesday, September 30. It’s a full month dedicated to bear conservation.

How many bear species are there in the world?

There are eight recognized species of bears globally: Asiatic black bears, brown bears (including grizzlies and Kodiak bears), polar bears, American black bears, sun bears, sloth bears, spectacled bears, and giant pandas. Each faces unique conservation challenges.

What are the biggest threats to bear populations?

Bears face significant threats including habitat loss and fragmentation due to human development, climate change impacting food sources and denning sites, and poaching for their body parts. Human-wildlife conflict also poses a danger as habitats overlap.

What is the origin of 'Bear Necessities Month'?

Bear Necessities Month was established to raise awareness and support for bear conservation, taking its name from the beloved song ‘The Bare Necessities’ from Disney’s 1967 film ‘The Jungle Book.’ It aims to highlight the fundamental needs for bears’ survival.

How to Observe Bear Necessities Month

Contribute to the cause
This is your chance to do something for these majestic beasts. Donate as much as you can to the W.S.P.A.
Tell your friends
Let everyone know the importance of this day. Write articles about Bear Necessities Month, and post them on social media.
Learn more about bears
Read about why bear populations are declining. Explore the steps you can take to save the bears.

5 Facts About Bears That Will Blow Your Mind

They are excellent with direction
Bears have a superior sense of navigation.
Some build nests
Some Asiatic bears are said to build nests on tree tops.
They are mythological
Many mythologies worldwide mention bears, and they are projected as a symbol of strength.
It is a national animal
Finland’s national animal is the brown bear.
They are fast
Bears can reach speeds of 40 mph!

Why Bear Necessities Month is Important

It gives us a chance to save bears
Bear Necessities Month allows us to find ways to protect bears. We also discover ways to protect their natural habitats.
We can come together as a community
This month allows like-minded people to unite and work toward a common objective. Many animal lovers join hands for the welfare of bears.
We learn more
This is a day of learning and sharing our new knowledge. We can learn about bears’ habitats, eating habits, the threats they face, and so much more.