Rocky

Click to hear Rocky

Rocky had a unique past as a former entertainment bear in the film industry. When his "retirement" finally came, he found himself at a Southern California boarding facility, which, unfortunately, was far too small to accommodate a bear of his size. Recognizing the need for a better life for Rocky, Bobbi stepped in to provide him with the forever home he had always deserved - a life as a bear, free from the abuse of the entertainment world. In the entertainment industry, animals are often quickly placed after their retirement.

Watch Rocky's Incredible Story

Milestones

.

Born into the Entertainment Industry (January 2003):
Rocky entered the world as a bear destined for the entertainment industry, where he would spend years being used for films and other productions.

.

"Retirement" to a Boarding Facility (Post-Entertainment Career):
After his time in the film industry, Rocky was placed in a Southern California boarding facility. However, the facility was far too small to accommodate a bear of his size and needs, leaving him in unsuitable conditions.

.

Rescue by Lions Tigers & Bears (June 4, 2022):
Bobbi and the Lions Tigers & Bears team rescued Rocky, offering him a forever home and the opportunity to live out his life as a bear, free from the exploitation of the entertainment industry. As part of the agreement, Rocky's former owners committed to no longer train animals for entertainment.

.

Adapting to His New Home (2022–Present):
Initially hesitant to explore his new habitat, Rocky was encouraged with a trail of food and patient care from Bobbi and the keepers. Over time, he has become a social bear, enjoying treats like watermelon and grapes, and showing delight in peppermint scents, symbolizing his newfound joy and contentment at Lions Tigers & Bears.

hello world!

Rocky's Gallery

sponsor Rocky

Shop Rocky Merch

shop here

Meet Our Other Residents

Zoe

Meet Zoe: What Netflix’s Tiger King didn’t tell you At Lions Tigers & Bears, we believe every animal deserves a chance at a happy, healthy life. Zoe and her sister Jem, two tigers rescued from dire conditions, embody the resilience and strength that drives our mission. Their journey from uncertainty to security highlights the importance […]

Learn more Sponsor Zoe

Rafa

Meet Rafa, our rescued serval cat with quite the wild backstory. Rafa was kept as a pet, a decision that’s always a bad idea when it comes to wild animals. After escaping—or perhaps being let out—Rafa was found roaming the streets of North County and even broke into someone’s home! Fortunately, the Humane Society rescued […]

Learn more Sponsor Rafa

Donashello

Meet Our Tortoise, Donashello It's official! We have our first ever shelled rescue. Weighing in at 100 pounds, this 15 year old sulcata tortoise is now calling Lions Tigers & Bears their forever home. His previous owners were elderly and could no longer care for him, so they reached out to us for help and we have […]

Learn more Sponsor Donashello

1 2 3 … 25 Next »

FAQ's

What do bears eat?

Bears are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and animals. Their diet varies by species and season but typically includes berries, nuts, roots, insects, fish, and small mammals. Some bears, like grizzlies, are skilled hunters, while others, like black bears, rely more on foraging.

Where do bears live?

Bears are found across North America, Europe, Asia, and even parts of South America. They inhabit a variety of ecosystems, including forests, mountains, tundras, and coastal regions. Each species has its own preferred habitat, such as polar bears in the Arctic and black bears in dense woodlands.

How long do bears live?

In the wild, bears typically live 15-25 years, depending on the species and environmental factors. In captivity, with proper care and veterinary attention, they can live over 30 years.

Are bears social animals?

No, most bears are solitary, except for mothers raising cubs. However, some species, like grizzlies, may gather in groups when food is abundant, such as during salmon runs. Bears communicate through body language, vocalizations, and scent markings.

How fast can bears run?

Despite their size, bears are surprisingly fast. Depending on the species, they can run between 30-40 mph (48-64 km/h) in short bursts. Black bears are particularly agile climbers, while grizzlies have immense power for chasing down prey or defending themselves.

Are bears endangered?

Some bear species are endangered due to habitat destruction, poaching, and climate change. For example, polar bears are at risk due to melting sea ice, while Asiatic black bears are hunted for the illegal wildlife trade. Other species, like American black bears, have stable populations but still face threats from human-wildlife conflict.

How many bears are in captivity?

Thousands of bears are held in captivity worldwide, often in roadside zoos, circuses, or private ownership. Many are used for entertainment, bred for the exotic pet trade, or kept in small enclosures with inadequate care. Sanctuaries like Lions Tigers & Bears rescue and rehabilitate bears from these situations, giving them a safe and natural environment to live out their lives.

Read More Related Articles

25/01/27 | By: Bobbi Brink

Do Lions Dream? Exploring the Sleep & Dreams of Animals

Have you ever seen your cat twitch and let out little “meows” in its sleep or watched your dog’s paws move as if chasing something in a dreamscape? It’s enough to make anyone wonder: Do animals actually dream—and if so, what are they dreaming about? From lions dreaming in the savanna to bears tucked away […]

What Are the Favorite Foods of Lions, Tigers & Bears?

Did you know a lion can devour up to 75 pounds of meat at one time? Or that bears shift their eating habits depending on the season, going from fruits and vegetables to hunting small mammals? In the wild, each of these animals follow a unique menu of their favorite foods. Accredited sanctuaries strive to […]

Lights, Camera, Cruelty? The Dark History of Animals in Entertainment

It’s easy to get lost in the magic of movies – the thrilling chariot races, the hilarious animal sidekicks, the majestic wildlife on screen. But behind Hollywood’s glitz and glamor often lies a troubling reality – animal cruelty. Animal cruelty and mistreatment have long been a part of the entertainment industry’s history. From early motion […]

619-659-8078

Stay The Night

Become A member

Attend a Fundraiser

Sanctuary Standards

The gift that gives