As the days grow shorter and the temperatures begin to drop, the bears at the FPWC Wildlife Rescue Center start to prepare for their long winter rest. Our autumn enrichment program is designed to align with the bears' natural instincts, providing them with the nutrition and activities they need during this transition. This seasonal shift marks a significant change from our summer program, which focuses on keeping the bears cool and active.

During the hot summer months, our enrichment program is geared towards keeping the bears cool and comfortable. We provide them with iced fruits to help them beat the heat, and activities centered around the pool offer a refreshing way for them to play and stay active. Summer enrichment is all about keeping the bears engaged while ensuring they stay comfortable despite the high temperatures.

As autumn arrives, the bears' needs begin to change. They instinctively prepare for winter, and our enrichment program adapts to reflect this shift. In late autumn, instead of focusing on cooling activities, we provide enrichment materials such as sticks, logs, and soon, straw. These materials allow the bears to start preparing their dens for winter, giving them a chance to exhibit natural behaviors like creating bedding and making their environments cozy.

A significant difference between summer and autumn is the type of food we provide. As winter approaches, the bears need to put on extra weight to endure the colder months ahead. Their diet becomes richer in fats and calories, including seeds, acorns, nuts, bones, fish, and meat. While they still enjoy vegetables and fruits, these are offered in smaller quantities compared to summer. We also add condensed milk to their diet, which helps them build up the necessary fat reserves.

With the temperature dropping, the bears naturally become more passive, conserving energy as they prepare for winter. To keep them physically and mentally stimulated, we hide food beneath the soil, encouraging them to use their powerful digging skills. This activity not only helps keep the bears active but also allows them to express their natural foraging behaviors, which are crucial for their well-being.

As we move deeper into autumn, the enrichment program continues to adapt, always striving to meet the changing needs of our bears. By providing a mix of nutritional support, physical activities, and opportunities for natural behavior, we ensure that our bears are ready for a safe and comfortable winter rest.