Bear Necessities Month occurs every September, and we’re here to show you how to observe this day in the best way possible. Do you know that it’s been more than 70 years since the World Society for the Protection of Animals (W.S.P.A.) was formed? Bears face the constant threat of being hunted for commercial and other purposes. Bear Necessities Month was created to save bears and their natural habitat. Its name was taken from ‘The Bare Necessities’ song from “The Jungle Book” (1967). People observe this month by contributing toward the protection and welfare of bears.
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
The World Federation for the Protection of Animals is established.
Operation Gwamba is started, and over 10,000 animals are saved from the flood in Suriname.
The World Society for the Protection of Animals (W.S.P.A.) is formed.
Bear Necessities Month is initiated to protect bears and their natural habitat.
Bear Necessities Month FAQs
What months are black bears most active?
Black bears are most active in September and October, right before they start their hibernation period.
What months do bears hibernate?
Bears generally start hibernation during November and December, when food becomes scarce.
What do bears eat?
Bears are omnivores, which means they eat other animals, plants, and even insects.
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.
Bear Necessities Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | September 1 | Sunday |
| 2025 | September 1 | Monday |
| 2026 | September 1 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | September 1 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | September 1 | Friday |
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