Susie

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In October 2022, Susie and Sallie found their long-awaited freedom when they were rescued from the Tri-State Zoological Park in Maryland. This facility had been a defunct roadside zoo that had faced
multiple animal welfare violations over the years, ultimately leading to its closure.

The path to this rescue was a lengthy and challenging one. PETA had filed lawsuits against the park in 2019 and then again in 2020, and it took an additional two years to set the rescue plan into motion. The relief was palpable when our team had the opportunity to help facilitate the rescue of 12 animals from the property.

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Milestones

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Years of Neglect at Tri-State Zoological Park (Pre-Rescue):
Susie endured years of hardship in a small, unsanitary enclosure at the defunct roadside zoo, surviving on a diet of junk food like donuts. This period highlighted the dire consequences of substandard care and the neglect faced by many captive exotic animals.

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Closure of Tri-State Zoological Park (2022):
After years of legal battles initiated by PETA in 2019 and 2020, the facility was shut down, paving the way for Susie's rescue. This milestone was critical in ending her suffering and ensuring she had a chance at a better life.

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Rescue and Relocation to Lions Tigers & Bears (October 12, 2022):
Susie, along with Sallie, was rescued as part of a large-scale operation to save 12 animals from the park. Their relocation to Lions Tigers & Bears marked a turning point, giving them access to proper care, a healthy diet, and an enriching habitat.

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Ongoing Recovery and Transformation (Post-Rescue):
Since her arrival at Lions Tigers & Bears, Susie has received tailored veterinary care, including treatment for her dental issues and obesity. She is now thriving with a nutritious diet and enrichment activities, embodying a story of resilience and hope.

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Meet Our Other Residents

Penelope

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Himmel

Remembering Himmel, Our Goofy Tiger Cub On January 13, 2016, Himmel, a 6 month old tiger cub, tragically passed away. His sudden passing was heartbreaking to share. Himmel arrived at Lions Tigers & Bears on September 5th, 2015. He came to us malnourished, declawed, and suffering from an umbilical hernia. We had concerns that he had […]

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Meatball

Meet Meatball, Our Black Bear Meet Meatball, a remarkable California black bear with an even more remarkable story. In August 2012, Meatball was captured by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife after his third strike of wandering into neighborhoods in northeast Los Angeles. He had become known as the "Glendale Bear" because of his […]

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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.

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