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Behind the scenes

BEARS EXPERIENCE

explore our gentle giants

Explore behind the scenes as we celebrate the bears, we share our planet with.

Each day 7 days a week all year long in every possible type of weather, Safari Niagara’s devoted Animal Care Team works diligently to ensure our animals receive the best possible care. Join us for a behind the scenes tour as keepers explain some of the trials and tribulations facing them daily as they care for these noble creatures.


While exploring behind the scenes with our bears, learn more about the decline in global populations, the change in historic geographic regions and the adaptability bears are known for in order to survive.  Learn the importance of education that reduces the number of bear and human conflicts. Experience these “gentle giants” in an intimate way, while understanding their nutritional needs during seasonal changes, their intelligence, and even family dynamics.


Bear populations worldwide have been reduced dramatically. Today 8 bear species remain. Safari Niagara is home to 2 species of bears. American Black bears and the Syrian Brown bear, a relatively small subspecies of Brown bear. Come join us as we celebrate the bears we share our planet with.

meet willy

Date of Birth Age Sex Species
January 15, 2002 21 Male Syrian Brown Bear
  • How long have they been at Safari Niagara?

    18 years (Arrived June 2006)

  • Distinguishing Characteristics

    “Brunette” Brown Bear

a close up of brown bear at interactive zoo experience niagara
a brown bear is swimming in a body of water at a niagara animal exhibit

meet johny

Date of Birth Age Sex Species
January 15, 2002 21 Male Syrian Brown Bear
  • How long have they been at Safari Niagara?

    18 years (Arrived June 2006)

  • Distinguishing Characteristics

    “Blonde” Brown Bear

meet bertha

Date of Birth Age Sex Species
June 18, 1999 24 Female North American Black Bear
  • How long have they been at Safari Niagara?

    23 years (Arrived September 1999)

  • Distinguishing Characteristics

    The size of large dog.

a close up of black bear at interactive zoo experience niagara
a close up of black bear at interactive zoo experience niagara

meet belzy

Date of Birth Age Sex Species
May 1, 2015 8 Male North American Black Bear
  • How long have they been at Safari Niagara?

    8 years (Born Here) 

  • Distinguishing Characteristics

    Pushy beyond all reason.

meet Ben jr.

Date of Birth Age Sex Species
May, 2015 8 Male North American Black Bear
  • How long have they been at Safari Niagara?

    8 years (Born Here)

  • Distinguishing Characteristics

    Mediator between Bertha and Belzy.

camera icon

PLEASE NOTE

  • Experiences run approximately 35-45 minutes in length
  • Experiences limited to a maximum of six people
  • Minimum age to experience tour is 6 years old.
  • Children must be supervised at all times – they will not be permitted to move about without the parent at arms reach
  • Space is limited and reservations are required to avoid disappointment
  • Payment is due upon booking.

  • Seven (7) day cancellation policy – if a tour is cancelled within seven (7) days of reservation date a refund will NOT be given.
  • Tours run rain or shine
  • Safari Niagara reserves the right to change an experience due to circumstances out of our control such as an animal’s health, exhibit maintenance, etc
  • Photos & video are not permitted at all times of your tour and only allowed at the zookeepers discretion.
  • Photos can be taken outside but not in barn areas
  • Admission to Safari Niagara is an additional cost


WILDLIFE AWAITS YOU

Embark on a captivating journey of connection and wonder as you get to know the animals at Safari Niagara. Prepare to be moved, amazed, and inspired by the fascinating world of wildlife that awaits you. Join us for a behind the scenes tour and let Willy, Johny, Bertha, Belzy and Ben Jr.  steal your heart as you stand next to one of the world’s most iconic species.


Have question? Feel free to get in touch or visit our FAQ's!

BOOK YOUR ADVENTURE

Reservations are required 24 hours in advance

Availability
Cost

Daily at 1:00PM


$60         (Admission to Safari Niagara is an additional cost)

BOOK NOW

All guests are to check in at Guest Services (entrance of the park) for their Behind The Scenes Experience at least 1 hour before their booked time.


All Behind The Scenes Experiences will start at exactly the time stated and can not be delayed.

more behind the scenes adventures

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