citation_inspection: 4264

The 2 bears did not have potable water in their enclosure. There was only dirty green water in a large metal pool. The facility owner informed the APHIS officials that the bears were not provided water (other than this pool) or food from the first of December until March to encourage hibernation and discourage animals from leaving the den. One of the bears walked out of the den and was observed in its enclosure by two of the APHIS officials. Bears periodically leave their den during winter months and drink water and/or eat and do need to be provided with potable water during winter months. Drinking contaminated water may result in illness. Additionally, if the facility is not providing fresh water on a regular basis, there may not be any water during long periods of significant cold temperatures (ie. when the pool is frozen) which could farther compromise animal health. The bears must have access to potable water to provide for their health and comfort. The facility owner was informed on Wednesday late afternoon by the APHIS officials to have this corrected by noon on Friday, 9 January 2015.