American Bear Association

The American Bear Association (ABA) is dedicated to promoting a better understanding of black bears and all wildlife through education, observation and experience. The ABA provides an unprecedented opportunity for visitors to observe and study black bears at the Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary. Through education, the ABA raises awareness about the needs of black bears and promotes increased tolerance and appreciation for this often misunderstood species.

Every year, 12,000-15,000 people visit our sanctuary and learn about wild American Black Bears through observation as we are the only open classroom in the world that has wild bears visiting. The bears come and go as they please and are not in cages, fences or enclosures. The bears go on about their days, exhibiting wild black bear behaviors seen only in the wild. Staff interpret behaviors seen and answer all of your bear questions. In addition, we do outreach and educational programs year-round and offer various programs throughout the year.