In Cherokee, North Carolina, two roadside zoos, Cherokee Bear Zoo and Santa’s Land, are still keeping bears in concrete pits and cramped cages. These conditions continue decades after such enclosures were widely condemned as cruel and outdated.

At these facilities, bears are confined to barren spaces with little to no enrichment. Many show signs of psychological distress, such as pacing and repetitive swaying. These behaviors are clear indicators of mental suffering. The enclosures lack natural features, stimulation, and anything resembling the forests these intelligent animals would experience in the wild.

These conditions are not just relics of the past. They represent active and ongoing neglect of animal welfare. Although the facilities operate on tribal land, that does not mean the animals should be left without protection or federal oversight.

We are calling on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to:

• Immediately investigate the conditions at Cherokee Bear Zoo and Santa’s Land
• Revoke licenses or permits if violations of animal welfare standards are found
• Retire the bears and other suffering animals to reputable, accredited sanctuaries
• End the use of concrete pits and cages for the display of wild animals in Cherokee, North Carolina

Public understanding of animal welfare has changed, and the standards for care must reflect that change. The continued use of bear pits damages the reputation of the region and sends the wrong message to the many tourists who visit Cherokee every year.

Sign this petition if you believe it is time to end this cruelty, close the bear pits, and give these animals the dignity and freedom they deserve.

Photo Credit: PETA