North American Bear Center

I've been to the bear center 4 times when I've traveled to Ely for an annual gathering of bear supporters and friends. It is one of the highlights of my trip! It has so much information on bears and how to coexist with them. The recent additions and improvements make it a state-of-the art museum! And I adore seeing the resident bears, Ted, Lucky, Holly, and now Tasha. If you haven't been there it's worth the trip!

I started volunteering for this organization a few years ago. I had been following them for several years prior to that and decided that I wanted to be a part of this team, in whatever manner i could..
What I've found is that people all over the globe volunteer for this organization.These people give their time for a company that is striving to educate everyone on the scientific research information that comes from years of study.
Working with all of these wonderful human beings is such a great experience and I have learned so much from being a part of this amazing group of people. Information that was learned from my childhood has proved to be false, which gives me much knowledge to continue to grow as a person.
I strongly advocate for the North American Bear Center (NABC) and hope you find this information useful and give them a 'look'.. One of the links for more knowledge is: http://www.bear.org/website/
Their 'sister site' for additional information is: http://www.bearstudy.org/website/

One of the best things I ever found was the bear.org site for the NABC.I have always loved bears- Smokey Bear was my favorite book- so when I saw on the news that a bear was going to be born live on camera I tuned in and was hooked on this place. I waited and waited for days - setting my alarm hourly during the night to check if a cub had arrived yet. Then watching and hearing the new cubs was amazing. Watching them grow was amazing and the information that I learned and the old myths that were dispelled kept me coming back for more and more . Then I was asked to volunteer as a moderator. It has been one of the best experiences I have had. I can't say enough about the level of education the NABC provides to anyone interested in learning. From the cub room for the youngest visitors to seeing the live bears up close on a behind the scenes tour to learning and sharing on the chat page for those too far away to visit. You know they are doing something right when you have guests and volunteers from all over the world. People fly across the ocean to visit family- see New York and other popular destinations but to have world travelers make The North American Bear Center their destination speaks volumes about how wonderful the NABC is

Everyone there is so inviting to answer any questions, the staff are amazing. Its a great place to learn not only about black bears but other wildlife.

​NABC has so much useful information on how to co-exist with black bears. As well as what to do when or if encountering them and how to prevent encounters. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Will take the time to discuss in detail any questions you have. Always very friendly. Pleasant way to start the day in the chat room chatters and moderators are the best for family friendly interactions.

My husband and I were able to drive up to Minn from Alabama to visit the Bear Center a couple years ago, we had been watching the den cam's in the wild and at the center before that, was over joyed to get to meet the staff and see the bears at the center in person. Since that visit they have done many more updates and improvements to the center, it's still on our bucket list to go back again. I have had the joy of being included as one of the online chat mod's for the bear center and have learned so much from the staff, other mod's, Doc and the researchers. I even won a personal phone call from Doctor Rogers, that was like a phone call from our own kind of Rock Star :) or should I say Bear Star, CrittersRUs

This is a fabulous educational experience. I hope many more people can visit and learn about the bears.

I have been volunteering for three+ years with this remarkable organization that strives to replace misconceptions with facts about the true nature of black bears. I love visiting the Ely, MN Center, a truly one-of-a-kind facility. It's a treat to see the four magnificent ambassador bears that help people learn from the bears themselves. I have learned so much from the wealth of interesting exhibits, articles, photos and videos and the engaging staff that provides wonderful care for Ted, Lucky, Holly and Tasha. Even at home, I am able to visit virtually every day through the Center's live webcams and chats. The North American Bear Center, by carrying out its mission to advance the survival of bears worldwide, is helping people learn to co-exist peacefully with black bears and I am grateful to be part of that!

Great place to learn more about Bears and other wildlife. I truly enjoy visiting the North American Bear Center. The staff and volunteers are so friendly and helpful. The NABC is a very educational place and the resident bears are a delight to observe. Great place and I highly recommend that you include a stop here during any visit to Ely.

My daughter and I had the most enjoy able time visiting the North American Bear Center in Ely a few yrs back for there Lily Pad Picnic! A great place to take the family and u get to see Ted, Lucky, Holly, and now Tasha! Please make a trip there it is beautiful and the people are so bear friendly!

In the four years that I have volunteered for the North American Bear Center, I have witnessed unwavering dedication to bears. Not only has the NABC added extensively to its physical facilities, but all involved work tirelessly to involve the worldwide public in observing and learning about bears through live webcams and numerous outreach resources including speakers and materials for educators and groups. Drawing on the researchers' many decades of data, as well as their own experience, staff members are bursting with knowledge about these fascinating creatures and are just bursting with excitement about sharing it.

The North American Bear Center is one of the best attractions in Ely, MN. Visitors learn about black bears and also learn about all species of wildlife in the north woods eco system.

It can be visited for an hour or for an entire day, based on the amount of information you want to take in from the multiple displays, movies, or the "behinds the scene" tour, to see the live bears up close.

Each year there is something new and different. This is a powerful way to learn about all north woods wildlife species and is a summer adventure I never miss. ELy is very fortunate to have the North American Bear Center to educate the public about behavioral patterns of the Black Bears.

I am a volunteer moderator who moderates chat on the live cameras of the NABC website. I came across NABC in 2010 watching a bear in the wild give birth in her den on camera. I was fascinated with bears before so that was wonderful seeing the birth and growth of a cub. Then I learned that the biologist and researcher, Doctor lynn Rogers, who placed that camera in the den also walked up to awake wild free bears in the forest and placed tracking collars around their necks. That seemed impossible and frightening to me. I had to find out more . i found out that much of what I "knew" about black bears was wrong. NABC is dedicated to educating people about what the real nature and tendencies of black bears (and to a lesser degree other bear species) in the hopes that truthful researched and published scientific facts about bears will help us to coexist with them to the greatest extent possible. Replacing myth and irrational fears with facts is seldom a bad thing so I volunteered to help in my small way. Ive had almost entirely good experiences from this and I am better off in the ways that are easier to feel than to describe or put numbers to from interacting with the wonderful people involved with "our" bears.

The North American Bear Center is a wonderful organization focusing it's efforts at educating the public about black bears and other wildlife native to northern Minnesota. The facilities are beautiful and the staff outstanding. I'm proud to be a volunteer.

It is a must see educational experience from the driveway to the entrance of the Bear center WOW then you step in and it takes your breath away !! through out the Bear center nothing but excitement and it changes your thoughts about Black Bears and sends you in a direction you never expected to get to. behind the scene tours are no charge and cap off a great experience !!

My experience with this non profit has been exceptionally positive. The education provided to visitors to the NABC is well detailed, informative, and interesting. The staff at all levels are helpful and professional.

Absolutely wonderful place to visit if you want to learn more about bears, their habitat and behaviors. Also a lot of information regarding other wildlife who share the Northwoods. I have been to the NABC at least 4 times and never get tired of learning....you can't help but learn when you go there! the videos are the best.....to see actual bear behavior in the wild is priceless. And I will DEFINTELY be going back....there's always more to learn!

I have made the North American Bear Center a destination vacation for three years. The opportunity to see the ambassador bears in a setting that mimics the wild habitat as much as possible for animals in captivity, has been awe-inspiring. Learning about wild bear behavior has made me better equipped to co-exist with the animals in my rural home. You can't help but become engaged by the bears and can't help but learn something in the highly entertaining yet education-centric environment. And the web-cams make it possible to "return" to the NABC any time I want.

I have been to the North American Bear Center numerous times. I HIGHLY recommend it to everyone, including families with children. If anyone wants to hear the truth about black bears, this is the place to go. There are many display's and articles about black bears. There are also 4 resident black bears that live there that cannot be released back into the wild for numerous reasons. Please give yourself at least 2 hours to see everything. I assure you, you will not be disappointed.

The NABC represents an entity that has truly made a difference in the world of nature and bears in particular. It is a place of learning, a people-oriented visiting area to see bears in a large living environment where one may see bears as they live in a totally safe place. It is not 'the wild'; it is as close as anyone can observe from a safe place. Their organization is admirable. During the time I volunteered, we viewed instruction videos, it was all so easy and doable; they have first class people working there, several who have applied their already honed skills in their previous careers, to this organization. They are all passionate and their mission is clear. I support this organization wholly in passing on all that I've learned wherever I can; as well as in the form of donations. I also support Doc Rogers' work, inspite of the 'forces' that have targeted his research, which interestingly strengthened the thought that bears are not those vicious predators that 'hunters' have made them out to be. The education and outreach programs have been superly run, and the school children who were lucky enough to see the den cams with mothers and their newborn cubs, will have a special memory and hopefully be inspired to continue the worthy mission of more bear education.

I had to consider *MY ROLE* because I have, in fact, never been to the NABC. Yet, I visit the website daily and have since 2010 when Lily the wild black bear was in labor in a den in the woods of Northern Minnesota, I was hooked. A thirst for knowledge of not only black bears, but nature, in general. Dr Lynn Rogers and Sue Mansfield has never failed to amaze me. The recent addition of little Holly as indeed been a blessing. The NABC has served to educate people throughout the entire world and has developed programs to be implemented in schools to replace misconceptions that have been ingrained in peoples minds for years about black bears with current scientific research. The NABC is on my bucket list! My experiences listed below signified by *checks* are my visits by internet and heart. :)

This is a wonderful place for both children and adults to learn about bears. I've been to the NABC every 4 years and will continue to return. It's a long drive for us, but well worth it. The displays are fantastic and they are now adding another addition to the NABC...a large northwoods ecology exhibit.

The 4 ambassador bears are free to roam on 2.5 wooded acres with natural food to forage on and many trees to climb. There is a beautiful pond for them with a bridge and 3 waterfalls. It's really fun to watch the bears from an outdoor balcony or from the expansive indoor viewing window. I can't say enough about how I enjoy watching the bears interact.

I've been a volunteer den watcher for 4 years and have learned so much about mother and cub behavior. Each mother has her own individual way of caring for her cubs. I feel very appreciated for the work I do. I also volunteer on Lily the Black Bear Facebook page for the Bear Facts and Fun group adding educational information in a creative format. As humans continue to encroach on black bear territory, we need to understand these beautiful gentle creatures. The more we learn, the more we can peacefully coexist. The NABC is a great place to learn and have fun at the same time.

I have visited the NABC the past five years, and hope to continue every year ~ it is such a grand place to learn, meet wonderful people who work there, see the resident bears, and just walk around watching videos and looking at pictures. They have a fantastic enrichment program and the staff are incredibly dedicated and helpful. There is so much to learn from visiting the center, you will want to come back for more. The Hope Learning Center is coming along nicely and it, too, will have vital information about the true nature of black bears and their lives. It's a magical experience...

I have been a den watcher since the winter of 2012. Seeing how mother bears take care of and interact with their infant cubs has been an invaluable experience. If not for the work NABC is doing I would still think black bears are vicious, people-eating beasts. But seeing how tender and loving momma bears are with their babies has gone a long way towards dispelling my previous notions about black bears. I would not change the experience I've had working as a den watcher for the world.

This is my third year of volunteering for the North American Bear Center and I plan to continue! What a wonderful place! Everyone is friendly and informative. They are dedicated to educating the public about the North American Black Bear and coexisting with them. Dr. Lynn Rogers and Sue Mansfield do amazing work..... Love them!

As soon as you walk in the doors to the NABC, you will see many smiling faces eager to answer any questions, and to guide you through the many exhibits that are at the center. These folks are eager to educate all visitors and not just information on the black bear, but a wide variety of creatures as well, polar bears, wolves etc. You will not regret your visit to the NABC!

I have followed the work of Dr Rogers and Sue Mansfield of the NABC and the WRI in Ely, MN. I have to say they have changed my entire view of the North American Black Bear. Learning about how they live, what causes them to react to many things, and how to deal with being around a black bear, is so great to know. I do not fear them, but I respect them as Dr. Rogers says, he teaches how to co-exist , yet in the realm of things he teaches how to hunt as well in a way that is most humane. Wonderful place to see, wonderful place to learn.

As a volunteer I am so looking forward to my visit to the NABC in 2014. I can't wait to see the resident bears,Honey,Lucky,and Ted. The addition of Holly Bear in December is so exciting,and I can't wait to see how she reacts to her new "friends". I have been following the research of Dr. Lynn Rogers,and Sue Mansfield for four years now,and have learned so much about the North American Black Bear through their education,and webcams,and will continue to support them 100%.

This is a wonderful place to take you family for a visit a learn all about the black bear .

Under new management, very poor experience! We waited for over an hour to see a bear only to eventually find out they were locked up away from visitors view. Walking around the few exhibits we had questions but no one there could answer them. $38.00 for 4 of us, definitely not worth the money.

In 2013, The bears are now locked up in small cages all day long. But when I visited in 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 and all 3 bears were visible if you stayed for more than an hour. The bears now look depressed and angry . Why ?
The new staff does not appear to know how to run the place. The have scripted answers for your questions, and it feels like a museum. They call it a museum now, and ignore the needs of the resident bears.

I rate them a 3-1/2. Well first off, I rarely rate anything with the "highest" or the "lowest". To make it to this list it shows me that the organization has worked hard, but there is always room for improvement. If someone gives them a "1" it shows me that it is a disgruntled employee (past or present) or unfortunately a visitor that talked to an employee that day that probably shouldn't be working there. And if there is a "5" rating I question that because there is "always" room for improvement and I wouldn't want to close the door by the "5". All corporations have these problems.
I visited in September 2011 and found they were going through "growing" pains and employee changes. However, the bears were well taken care of and the employees I encountered were polite and professional, even though it was an emotional day for them with "Hope".
Now with the new cub "Holly" they will face even more challenges and people that won't agree with them. However, I believe their number "1" focus is the bears and they are trying to improve their life and surrounding forest. It is important for people to realize these are wild animals that are not able to return to the wild because of humans. We must remember they are not pets and try and give them a surrounding they might have had in the wild. Takes time and patience. Let the professionals do that and outsiders can learn from it.
They do need help on their live "chat" pages. Unfortunately it is difficult for the moderators to determine who is actually interested in learning about the bears or trying to create an unstable chat room.

So exciting for the educational bldg. and Holly the bear cub this year! Everyone will enjoy it!
Susan999 was dissatisfied with the viewing arrangements on her trip there this month and gave a 1 star. I hope we all can talk her into coming back again in the summer. The bears will be out and enjoying the pond and land.
The antics of the new cub will be priceless! Maybe the Bear Center can give Susan999 a discount.
I guarantee she will have a better experience.
I have learned so much about bears in the past couple years. Many more years of learning to come!

I really enjoyed the Bear Center. The live bears do come out of their cages and walk around a beautiful natural setting. If you are elsewhere in the Center, the loudspeaker announces when a bear is out so you don't miss it. The day I went, they were not out the entire day but for several hours. You can take photos of them from an outdoor bridge as well as watch them through a large indoor window with seating.

However, this place is about much more than just going to see live bears, and the occasional talk about them by a researcher. There are many exhibits on bear behavior, including lots of videos of bears in the wild (including footage of bears in their dens via "den cams") and other materials developed by the researchers such as recordings of sounds that bears make that can be played by pressing buttons. I also enjoyed a large exhibit on how bears are portrayed with a "fierce" image in magazines and movies, when in reality black bears just aren't that fierce. Lots of great bear photographs taken by the researchers too. For children, there is a whole children's room to teach about bears through touching things and other kid-friendly exhibits. There are some very large taxidermed animals such as a moose in addition to bears.

The NABC is one way that the Wildlife Research Institute (the research arm of the Center that studies bears and reports on the findings) educates the public. I already knew a lot about the WRI from social media, but while at the Bear Center I also had a chance to see a very nice documentary on its work with bears, which plays in the movie theater continuously. I was also privileged to take one of the classes offered by WRI researchers and learn even more about bears. This organization is the only one I know that is actively reaching out to the public about bears and getting them interested and involved.

Visit the NABC and you will probably learn some very cool things about bears. This is not simply a "bear zoo" where you take your kids to look at the bears, it's more on the level of the Smithsonian or a similar educational institution, so come prepared to learn! There are also many other ways to get information about bears from the NABC and WRI, including website updates about bears being followed by the researchers, e-mails, and social media pages. I have loved the opportunity to challenge my beliefs about bears and learn more about these wonderful creatures!

The North American Bear Center and the Wildlife Research Institute have studied the black bears of the Minnesota north woods for 40 years. Their innovative approach to working with bears without tranquilizers or invasive means has allowed them to see bears in their natural habitat and in their relationships with other bears and their own cubs. The den cams allowed, for the first time, researchers and the world to rejoice in the birth of Hope on camera. She was later murdered by a human predator. The Hope Learning Center is in her honor. This is an OUTSTANDING organization that is truly a Great Non profit and deserves the support of all who enjoy wildlife.

The den cams, websites online updates, emails, and of course the wonderful NABC building itself give so many opportunities to learn about black bears. Since the age of 3 I've loved bears. This wonderful non-profit organization has provided so many learning opportunities. Through Dr. Rogers' and Sue Manfields research many myths have been unraveled about bears partically the ones portraying Black Bears in a negative light. Through their education we can co-exist with these magnificent animals. I've had the opportunity to not only volunteer as a Den cam monitor but to also attend Dr. Rogers' Black Bear Field Study program. The learning experiences that I have had are amazing.

This organization opened my eyes to the wonderful world of black bears. I had always respected them, but NABC has educated my family and me about how the intelligent and peaceful bears are. This research group is absolutely wonderful and I have never been associated with such a highly respected organization. I am very thankful for all the wonderful work they & I know God is blessing them.

The North American Bear Center is great non-profit providing valuable information to learn how to co-exist with these beautiful bears. I have learned more about black bears from NABC than anywhere else. The three bears at the center are loved and well cared for by a dedicated staff. I would recommend anyone who has an interest in wildlife and ecology to visit the center or their web page at www.bear.org

This is the most amazing animal research group. They have done so much to educate the public as to the real personalities of the North American black bear and showing us that they are gentle, shy creatures. I am a 6th grade teacher in So. Calif. The work of the NABC/WRI has been a mainstay in my science curriculum because of the real life/real time information my students have learned. I still have students from the first year the den webcams were shown (Lily and the birth of Hope) who contact me each year to tell me they too are still learning and following the bears. My students all feel they are part of the research as we all learn together. I can't say enough about Dr Rogers, Sue Mansfield and the other people with the NABC. Outstanding biologists as well as very ethical people.

I've learned so many things about the black bear from the North American Bear Center. This organization has taught me and countless others, how and where black bear den, what happens in the den during birth, family interactions, what bears eat & how they survive in a bad food year, how bears are not the ferocious animal that some make them out to be, how mother bears share their territory with their cubs & possibly the most valuable information they provide is, the importance of people learning to coexist with bears and how this is possible. This is just a smidgen of the information learned from the North American Bear Center. The information about black bears, that they provide is priceless. They make learning fun and interesting and I recommend them to every one I know.

Have had an interest in bears for many years, found the website of the North American Bear Centre on line, have learned more about bears on there than anywhere, in fact I found it so appealing I travelled from the UK just to visit the bear centre , you will not be disappointed! And of course they have the 3 resident Black Bears, Ted, Honey and Lucky, I urge anyone who wants to learn about bears to visit the Bear centre , will be going back again soon !

I have always been drawn to bears- not sure why but Smokey the Bear was my favorite story book as a young child. I had always heard how dangerous bears were but i loved them just the same. Then I found the NABC and started learning what bears were really about and saw and learned from Honey, Ted and Lucky firsthand how intelligent yet timid a bear could be. Watching the bears work with enrichment toys proved how smart and curious bears are. The staff and volunteers at NABC is one of the most dedicated group of workers I have ever had the pleasure to see in action and be a very small part of. I wish i lived close enough and was wealthy enough to help them more than i can right now. For now I can do my online volunteering and spread the word about this wonderful organization and to teach others what they have taught me- some of it taught by the people of the NABC and some taught by the bears.

The North American Bear Center is a wonderful place. I've spent hours there watching videos of the wild bears living their lives. The exhibits are beautifully done and very informative. Love the one that shows all the different kinds of seeds found in a bear's scat. When you want to take a break from the exhibits you can spend time looking at the beautiful pond, maybe one of the resident bears will come by. The NABC does so much to educate people about black bears.

The NABC is a great nonprofit. I am a teacher in CA and thanks to Dr. Rogers, Sue Mansfield and all at the NABC our class has followed the collared black bears for 2 years. NABC gives my "city" students the opportunity to step inside the Northwoods of MN and enjoy their science lessons following the black bears.

Excellent informative displays and videos from bears living in the wild. Highly educational facility. Staff very helpful and engaging. Live den cams are a must to see and experience. I didn't realize that hibernating bears do not sleep the whole time as we were told. Mother bears actually take care of their cubs many hours a day, in between taking naps.

I have been a volunteer for the NABC for 2.5 years and have visited the Center on two occasions in the last three years. The reason I am so fond and supportive of the center is due to their sense of the need for research in the Minnesota northland and an equivalent need for a better understanding of the black bears we have come to know. I have found Dr. Lynn Rogers to be an ecological thinker and a guide to a modern environmental consciousness. All the staff at the center promote coexistence as well as cohesiveness in the world regardless of species. It is difficult to express in words the sense of knowlege as well as tranquility that the work of the center brings to those who visit and understand the work done. Additionally, those connected with the center stimulate an excitement about learning in visitors of all ages and locations in the world. There is such value that their work brings; a sense of fairness and ethics sorely needed our world today.

Excellent displays, information, video, current information on bears. Live bears help you learn behavior, interactions, and food preferences. The Center teaches with audio, visual, and sensory methods to accommodate our individual ways of learning and all ages. The wonderful children's room contains toys, pelts, books. microscopes, a children's den. Learn from the bear food garden outside the museum. Walk on trails to learn plants and get a feel of the north woods. Hoping to open next summer is an ecology addition that tells about other creatures and plants in the world of the bear. This addition will have an interactive learning center.

This "charity" preys on the lonely and vulnerable by sharing cutesy bedtime stories in their nightly update. They are shameless in their solicitation of funds, even though the principal owns over $1,000,000 of land in the Ely area. They are masters of manipulation.

The North American Bear Center in Ely, MN is a state of the art educational setting to learn the truth about the American Black Bear. There are over 60 video displays, full size bear mounts, and three living black bears who call NABC home. Schools bring students to the Center for hands on learning. A world wide audience watches live cameras year round that show the three bears roaming their 2.5 acre enclosed forested area. Live cams in dens during hibernation show that bears definitely are not asleep all winter long. The NABC has become a destination place at "the end of the road" in Ely, MN. In 2014 the Hope Education Building will be opening, along with the Northwoods Exhibit of animals, plants, and the sounds of the north woods that the black bears would come in contact with in the wild.

The NABC provides so many fun and educational ways to learn about bears. The web site and Center is filled with information about primarily black bears but also brown bears and polar bears. The website has a webcam and chat line focusing on the Center's three resident bears, Ted, Lucky and Honey. The bears have 2 1/2 wooded acres that can be observed from the deck at the Center. The Center is filled with videos, film, photography, print information, taxidermy of bears and a woodland trail. Opening soon is an Ecology exhibit.

The North American Bear Center provides so much information and research through their bear center and website, that I have learned so much about Black Bears that I would have never learned anywhere else. I was fortunate enough to have witnessed Jewel give birth to Fern and Herbie 2 years ago and it sparked my interest so much that I am now a volunteer.
Thank you,
Deborah J Macklin

A wonderful, educational organization which has taught thousands about the true nature of Black Bears.

I started watching the den cam when Jewel gave birth to Herbie and Fern. This web site has taught me so much about the Black Bear's behavior. There are so many myths out there about these beautiful animals. Dr. Rogers and his research staff are so full of information. I wish these cams had been around when I was in school. Thank you Dr. Rogers.

I have learned so much about the North American Black Bear because of this organization. education and entertainment and now I have a deep understanding and incredible love for this majestic and often misunderstood animals.

I live in New Zealand, where there are no bears, and discovered the NABC through watching the live dencams. My interest in bears grew and I travelled to Ely to do a bear study course and visit the NABC, which certainly didn't disappoint !! Not only is it an excellent center for education (as a teacher I would love to be able to take children to there) but there are also 3 resident bears who just "do what bears do," and are absolutely fascinating to watch. Their natural habitat and freedom allows them to demonstrate the true nature of black bears and the respect with which the staff hold the bears is wonderful to see.
The NABC also has an authentic welcoming environment, which is not always a "given" in wildlife centers. The displays are amazing and a lot to take in (especially when there is bear activity outside) and the staff and volunteers are friendly, informed and are ready to answer all the questions about black bears (and other wildlife) that you can ask! Because I live so far away, I have also been very appreciative of their excellent mail order service from the shop...they just can't do enough to help!
I can't wait to go back to Ely, sometime in the future. And the NABC will be my first port of call when I do!! I look forward to seeing the new Hope Learning Center and other new additions... and of course, the bears!!!

I first came across the NABC after watching My Family & Me on the BBC. As a result I started following the adventures of Ted E, Honey & Lucky on live cams & pond chat, which led me to volunteer as a den watcher. My first year was the winter Lucky & Ted shared a den, a fabulous introduction to the bears & their antics. Since then I have been privileged to share in the lives of these fabulous creature, even though I live in the UK. Like thousands of others I have learned about the true nature of bears from watching & recording the den cams, reading the updates and learning from the bear facts on the website & on Facebook. I am currently saving to come to Ely, to visit the NABC & see the beautiful Northwoods.

A total waste of money. they never use the money as stated.

What a treasure to have the North American Bear Center right here in MN. I have learned so much valuable information from Dr. Lynn Rogers and Sue. The bears have a beautiful pond with waterfall for them to play in along with acres of land for them to run around in. There are only 3 bears there so there is plenty of room for then to roam around and play. Dr. Lynn Rogers is very well respected world wide by not only fans but other biologists. There is a beautiful new education wing being added onto the bear center so that even more education can go on there.

For 3 solid years, they highly encouraged all the followers to donate to Nutsonlie for Ted Lucky and Honey! They gladly accepted our donations, but they failed to mention that all those donations went directly to the Wildlife Research Institute instead, for feeding the wild bears in the research areas. The curator and staff at the NABC at the time, had to buy nuts at the local feed store in town with their own money! Deception at it's finest!

A couple years ago I began watching when Jewel (study bear) gave birth to Fern and Herbie. The experience was awesome as I had no idea bears are so gentle, caring and loving. One thing (of many) sticks out in my mind. Jewel, a first time mother, noticed Ferns left eye was not opening. Jewel, examined the eye several times knowing something wasn't quite right. She took her long claw and gently worked on getting the eye opened. It's important to note that had the lid not opened Fern's eye would be underdeveloped to say the least. Fern began to cry while Jewel patiently tried to get the eye opened and then she would rest and then return to the task. One time when Fern cried, Jewel held her in her big paws, look at Fern then cradled and rock Fern so lovingly and vocalized to her little girl cub. Something happens inside a persons heart when they are so fortunate to see such a tender moment and be able to relate because, afterall, Fern cried and sounded just like a baby.

All this and so much more was shared with people all over the world on Live Bear Cam from the North American Bear Center known also as the Wildlife Research Institute in Ely, Minnesota under the guidance of Dr. Rogers who has been educating children in 500 classrooms and people all around the world via the Live Bear Cams and "Daily Updates". For 50+/-years Dr. Rogers and the wonderful volunteers have made it possible for all of us to grow in bear knowledge and our appreciation of the unique lives of bears.

And what is really great is that almost everyday there is a "Daily Update" on the website and emailed to us giving the world a close and personal knowledgable experience that changes our lives in special ways. YouTube has lots of videos from the WRI (Wildlife Research Institute). Our families are surely blessed.

Try it. You'll like it.

I love this charity and everyone involved in it. I have learnt so much about Black Bears, and other species, and the surrounding fauna. Schoolchildren go there on excursions and are warmly welcomed, and have alot of fun while learning. Being from the UK, this is my no 1 destination to visit.

I like this website. It has lots of information about black bears. I was writing a report on bears for school and got lots of information at NABC. On the bear chat, the moderators really helped with any questions I had. They make sure everyone is nice to each other on the chat. Watching the bears is my favorite part. I love watching them run around the pond and seeing them in their dens in winter. Since I started getting on this website, I have gotten lots of information and learned many cool facts about bears I would never have know. They are really organized and have very accurate information. NABC has befriended the bears they have their. I am so happy I learned about this site.

As a charity, you can be comfortable with how the money is spent. You are free to visit, or check on the cams or check their facebook & updates daily. They incorporate their city & community with classes for the youth & training for adults. Everyone is welcome. Any questions you may have about bears can be read with their education materials or ask a moderator in the chat room. I cannot think of a charity I feel this positive about the way the charity operates. Love the people & of course, the bears.

This is the premier facility in the world to understand and lean about North American Bears, particularly Black Bears. From the rescued Black Bears in residence, to the reading, video, pictures, and childrens center, it is not only educational, but a very fun place to visit. You will learn so much and enjoy every moment.

The North American Bear Center is a top shelf organization and is very well run. I have been a volunteer for four years and I wouldn't trade it for anything I've ever done. The staff at the bear center is second to none and extremely easy to work with and add to that the displays, the many video monitors, and the beautifully well kept grounds and you have a recipe for 100% success. It's truly an honor to volunteer for such a fantastic organization.

I've never even seen a bear in the wild. As for most people, I was taught to fear them if I ran into one in the woods. I had no knowledge of their behavior and diet, so the only conclusion I'd logically come to was my becoming a shredded lump of flesh for their lunch or dinner feast. That was the OLD me, before I stumbled upon the world of the NABC and WRI.

Dr. Lynn Rogers and his assistant, biologist Sue Mansfield, possess the X-Factor that separates them from their peers. They are visionaries who have a tireless, unrelenting passion for and dedication to the bears which is impossible to ignore. We are sucked into the saga of the lives of these beings of the Northwoods. The den cams are priceless pieces of education and entertainment that yearly introduces us to the newest members of the clan. We can see the cubs development during the first critical stages of life, and how Momma Bear coaxes them away from the den for the last time to tackle the outside world. It's emotional, dramatic and bittersweet - the stuff of real life. But, most importantly for me, I will continue to follow the bears to learn from THEM how I can be a better human.

The North Anmerican Bear Center is changing the world's view of black bears. Their passion and commitment to teaching how to co-exist through education is inspiring.

I have been watching Ted, Honey and Lucky at the NABC via pond cam for four years, and have been reading the Researchers updates and following the den cams of the research bears in the wild since right before Lily gave birth to Hope. The education derived from the 3 bears at the Bear Center and the Research Bears in the wild was life changing. I learned how intellectual and timid and mild black bears are. Their child=rearing skills are phenomonal.
And I learned, through the 3 bears at the Center, the individual personalities and foraging habits of back bears. I was privileged to visit the NABC last year and was very impressed with all of the exhibits. And was able to get close to the bears on our photo shoot. What a great experience. The staff are so friendly and their educational talks were great. I also donate when I am able. I plan to go back to visit this Spring when the Hope Educational Center opens which will provide a great educational opportunity to students worldwide on the life of black bears.

Plan to spend at least two days at the North American Bear Center in Ely, MN. The Staff and Volunteers are happy to assist you. Stay for the presentations. Meander around at your own pace. Everything you ever wanted to know about Black Bears is available on site. Books, videos, exhibits. For Adults and Children alike. Bring the whole family. And the most amazing experience of all.... observing live Black Bears in their habitat. If you aren't familiar with Ted, Honey and Lucky, go to the Facebook Page: Lily the Black Bear. You're in for a surprise, a treat. The North American Bear Center was created by Dr. Lynn Rogers, world-renowned Biologist and wild Black Bear researcher, who also specializes in field study of these amazing, beautiful creatures. Come to Ely, MN. Visit NABC. You won't forget it.

I can not even begin to tell you how the NABC has changed the views of many people regarding the Black Bear. What a wonderful Center to visit. So much information and well presented. The area for the kids is wonderful. The new addition of the Hope Learning Center will be such an asset to the town of Ely, the State of Minnesota and the world.

So many visitors to the center from all over the World. I commend the staff for a great job in presenting the North American Black Bear. What a beautiful animal, misunderstood by many, but with the NABC, we are all learning the truth about these beautiful animals.

We as a family have visited the NABC twice....both visits were wonderful The exhibits are very educational and interesting. The theatre area for viewing the resident bears is wonderful, and the theatre area for viewing the 'BearWalker' video is superb. We enjoyed the outdoor viewing area for the bears. My family is certainly looking forward to future visits to see the progress on the new educational wing that is currently being built. The children's room is awesome...a wonderful area for young children to learn about the American Black Bear and various wildlife from the area. The various video stations showing actual bear behavior in the wild are such a great visual tool.
A special treat was the time we actually got to meet Dr. Lynn Rogers while at the NABC...thanks to him and his unique approach to studying the bears the world can learn to appreciate and co-exist with these beautiful creatures.

This research of black bears has taught me and my family how to co-exist with black bears. The importance of understanding these beautiful animals and the continuing education will only benefit both bear and humans. Learning about the lives of black bears has brought better knowledge to the world and shows the importance of black bears existence and much needed protection. These research bears have changed many minds of their reputation from negative to being positive thoughts.

The North American Bear Center (NABC) is a top notch non-profit organization whose passion for what they do shines through in the outstanding quality of their work. The NABC has educated people across the world about the true behaviors of black bears & has helped to dispel many myths about this misunderstood animal. The NABC has also teamed up with teachers to develop a fabulous educational outreach program to take the things taught at the NABC into school classrooms. The materials include a curriculum map, lesson plans, interdisciplinary ideas, as well as black bear boxes to provide a “hands on” experience for the students. I am grateful that I have had the opportunity to volunteer for this organization for the past several years, as every time I am there it is an enriching experience in which I learn something new!

This organization conducts research and education on the real lives of black bears. This is done in a unique way through observation and a mutual respect. By having live den cams, the public has witnessed live births, nurturing, and family development not previously known. The den cams are used in many elementary schools as part of a black bear educational plan. NABC has dispelled the belief that black bears are aggressive and to be feared. NABC is also a valuable member of the Minnesota and Ely communities bringing in tourist dollars and support.

Having fear of Black Bears as a child on in to adulthood. I found the North American Bear Center. The education about bears here is GREAT! Not only do they teach you about bears but also about the life bears live and how to live with them.

A valuable educator and teacher about the ecology of Minnesota and the black bear. Donors have formed a community that supports one another, as well as, the North American Bear Center.

Since I found this organization about 5 years ago I found it very valuable educational
and enjoyable on so many levels. Learning about black bear behaviors
And their lives in General has helped me learn the true nature about
these beautiful animals and lessen my fears about them. The researchers
are wonderful and compassionate. I have since become a volunteer and feel
a part of this non-profit organization and it's fun too. I feel it truly deserves
a high status as a great non-profit

Living as a transport from the city to bear country of PA, we were petrified when we met our new neighbors .... bears! After many nuisance phone calls to our local game commission with complaints, we researched and found www.bear.org. We have learned so much about bears, their demeanor, meanings of their actions, their habitat, vocalizations, and much much more. The den cams were the most educational tool afforded to the public to view in real time. World wide viewing of the den cams is an amazing resource to learn about black bears, and the North American Bear Center is responsible for this wonderful education and opportunity for us to get to know our neighbors. We now co-exist in the beautiful bear country mountains of PA, and look forward to my third visit to Ely, MN. Thank you to the NABC for the continued education of black bears, and sharing your research studies and the den cams with us all.

Not a very good experience. The bears are in cages most of the time.

The staff were not helpful at all. Displays look dated.

I read the number one reason for the death of bears is murder, ie hunting! The way it was worded was incorrect in my opinion. Correct me if I am wrong but isn't a non-profit meant to be neutral and not be for or against ?

The North American Bear Center and it's sister organization, The Wildlife Research Institute, are leaders in educating the public about all bears, and in particular the North American Black Bear that live around the Bear Center's headquarters in Ely, Minnesota. NABC/WRI have used cameras in hibernating bear's dens to broadcast live births over the internet. These "den cams" have reached hundreds of thousand of viewers world wide and have been broadcast to numerous classrooms throughout the United States. School children learn about black bears through packets that that the NABC provides to their teachers.
Additionally, the NABC uses Facebook to update the public daily on the activities of the bear's in it's research study. These particular research bears have GPS collars and are followed by Dr. Lynn Rogers or his associate biologist Sue Mansfield. The researchers have earned the bears' trust through non-aggressive means and they can walk with the bears to study them. They change the batteries in the bears' collars by simply offering a handful of nuts and gentle words. Many hours are spent learning about bear behavior and building a repetoire with individual bears. Not all bears will allow the researchers to walk with them, even though they may have known them since birth. It depends on bear personalities, just like humans!
The NABC and WRI websites have tons of information available to the public about all species of bears and can answer almost every question you can think of from what bears like to eat, to what they really do all winter long in their dens. The NABC has a unique center that the public can tour and see exhibits and three beautiful bears that live on-site. Ted, Honey, and Lucky will steal your heart with their antics.
This is such a great non-profit organization and I recommend you make a donation to the North American Bear Center.

The North American Bear Center is a wonderful nonprofit organization and deserves to be recognized for their truthful knowledge about black bears. They use this knowledge to teach people all over the world about the black bears.

The knowledge shared by the NABC is very important. Black bears have been misunderstood for a long time, and many have met tragic deaths due to this. This is a unique educational organization with a wealth of facts to spread worldwide. Its use of technology (live streaming video and live chat for instance) is effective in reaching people of all ages and countries. There is so much passion and dedication demonstrated daily by the volunteers and regular staff. Actually watching bears go about being bears on a daily basis is amazing.

The North American Bear Center (NABC) is an exceptional nonprofit organization! The organization provides accurate and very educational information about black bears and other wildlife not only at the NABC site in Ely but also through schools and social media. They have an exceptionally well-organized volunteer organization that provides a variety of volunteer opportunities - you can help out any way you want, for any amount of time, and from any location in the world and you can be assured that you will be working with other volunteers who are very enthusiastic and extremely well-informed. I can't say enough about this organization!

The NABC offers excellent educational facts about not only the Black Bear but other bear species as well. The numerous constantly playing video clips of the various aspects of bear behavior have opened my perception of what bears really do - and that they actually like to play and are intriguing to watch! The three resident bears - Honey, Ted and Lucky - are in a very natural and wild environment. When the staff interact with them for the bear enrichment, it's done in a way that the bears are not 'showing off' as if in a circus, but to show how they would react to the item if found in the wild. There is SO much information offered that I find I learn something new each time I'm there, and there are constant upgrades/improvements each time as well. I see they now have a 'pet relief' area which is a nice amenity when traveling with pets, and the Hope Learning Center will be completed soon with more exhibits and state of the art learning tools - very anxious to see it all put together!!! I am a member, will continue to give my support because I believe there is still a lot we don't know about bears and the NABC provides that newly found information. I encourage friends and family to check it out!

I am one of the North American Bear Center's biggest fans. They have so many beautiful, educational exhibits there. They have a children's room where the kids can learn so much about bears. Lynn Roger's research is so very important to teach the world to co exist with black bears. I highly recommend to anyone to make a visit there....Well worth the trip!!!

My husband and i have spent over 35 years canoeing in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. While we have both desired and feared an opportunity to see a black bear in the wild we have yet to come across one.

We happened to be in Ely during the opening of the NABC. The information available then challenged all our beliefs(fears) about black bears. The Center has grown incredibly and now, with the den cams, the many videos, the expanded displays and the huge amount of research-backed educational information available to anyone who walks thru the doors our desire to be able to observe a black bear - preferably a mother with cubs - in the wild has increased!

In the meantime, our frequent visits to Ely include stops at the NABC to visit and learn more from the friendly staff and the volunteer Bear Educators. We don't miss a chance to watch, learn and smile at the antics and behaviors of Ted, Lucky and Honey. These bears seem to become more entertaining each visit.

Dr. Lynn Rogers and Sue Mansfield have provided the world with such a large and growing base of information . The not-yet-completed Hope Education Center will be a fantastic place for educators and learners alike. i can hardly wait to see it filled with groups of curious children and adults!

I have known of Lynn Roger's work over the past 30 years. I have always been curious of more respectful techniques of approaching the study of animals. As a Montessori teacher, our greatest gift as a guide to the children we work with is observation from knowledgeable principals and honest assessment, even when the children prove us off course in our understanding. I have watched and read his body of work over these years and have learned so much about the behavior of the NA Black Bear and the growth of his respectful approach through observation and walking with the bear community...peaceful coexistance.
The work of Sue Mansfield and the NABC continue to reveal the true behavior of this magnificent animal we live so closely with here in Minnesota.

As a teacher it opened up the eyes and hearts of the children/students I work with from preschool to Jr. High. The 5 & 6 year olds followed the den cam over the years writing stories and illustrating pictures of the bear family. They eventually wrote a play called, "Little bear takes a walk" from a 1970's story book. It was complete with Dr. Rogers calling out, "It's me bear" and much more about the life in a MN woodland. The upper elementary children worked cross level with the "bear box" exploring the videos, reading the books, writing from their own experience and discovering new research and truths. One of the greatest gifts of the NABC work is how children can practice the scientific method by choosing a topic, observing the behavior, document their observation, discuss and come to conclusions. Our whole school community participates in activities and residencies at our Land School. We have corridors that bear pass through at the LS and are developing a program of education with the help of the NABC/WRI and its amazing body of research and observations. It is not only informative but playful and enjoyable for the children to study.

Our goal is that of Lynn's...peaceful co-existence here in MN and elsewhere with the North American Black Bear beginning with education. We would have never gone so far without the NABC and Lynn/Sue's work. This is an amazing organization.

I teach in the Green Bay Area Public School District and I use the Den cams as a teaching tool for students. The students absolutely love the NABC and WRI websites. There is an unbelievable amount of resources available that are fun ways to learn for students. Recently I had the opportunity to bring a couple of students to North American Bear Center. The staff there is phenomenal and the center has great exhibits. The students learned the truth about bears and about the fabulous research that is being done. I wish that every student had the opportunity to experience this wonderful place that is in Ely!

I have volunteered for the North American Bear Center for about two years now. I first learned about the research of Dr. Rogers long before there was an internet or den cams! I read some of his research on bears when I was in college studying wildlife management. I was impressed with his study methods, which were so different than those used by other scientists. And, he was getting results! His methods worked better than the old tranquilize, test, and release methods, in my opinion. Plus, it was much less stressful on the animal. I have followed his research since then.
When the den cams became popular, I was able to share them with my students, who loved watching wild bears raising their young. The den cams were a hit with kids.

I think that the staff at NABC are some of the most dedicated, hard-working researchers I know. If I did not agree with their study methods, I would not be a volunteer. However, I love volunteering here and I support the research completely. I started volunteering by making a set of playing cards for the Black Bear Boxes, which are educational boxes that schools can borrow for their classrooms. I then joined as a volunteer both for the Speakers' Bureau and the Bear Facts and Fun Games group online. I write a weekly educational (and fun) short piece on bears, which is posted on the Facebook page of Lily the Black Bear.

I thoroughly enjoy volunteering for the NABC. They have a large group of very dedicated volunteers worldwide. This is an absolutely amazing and fine group to be a part of. I plan to continue volunteering for them for a long time to come.

The American Bear Center quite literally saved my sanity. Having booked a holiday from Britain to spend a month with my father, a resident of Ely, he sadly died before I arrived. Donna Rogers and the staff at the center offered me the chance to work with them for the month. For my grief stricken step-mother and I, it became a sanctuary to which I ran too every morning. I will be eternally grateful for their kindness and the extraordinary experience very few people from England ever get the chance to have. I tell everyone at the High school I work at, at any opportunity, all about the brilliant work that goes on and my office has become a shrine to three of the most beautiful creatures that I have ever had the fortune to share my time with. I am very proud of my bear educator certificate and will treasure it always. I hope to return as soon as I can to carry on as a volunteer.

I was a den watcher for a year and wanted to make the trip to Minnasota. Just to see the North American Bear Center. So I did sure glad I made the trip learned so much about the studies and how important they are. Already planning another trip can't wait well worth it.

I have never been involved with a group of people more dedicated to a cause than those that work for and with the North American Bear Center. The researchers, curators, educators and service staff are amazingly devoted to their work and to educating the general public about the American Black Bear and its place in our environment. So often we forget that we humans are the ones who continue to infringe on the habitat of all species of wildlife - and it is so rare to find an organization with no motivation other than to help us all learn how to respect our environment and all of the creatures that share it. As stated on the Center's website (www.bear.org), "The mission of the non-profit North American Bear Center is to advance the long-term survival of bears worldwide by replacing misconceptions with scientific facts about bears, their role in ecosystems, and their relations with humans." It is fascinating work and I am honored to learn from those who do it and support them with my contributions.

I am a proud supporter of the NABC/WRI and have been a volunteer for the NABC/WRI since 2010. I have learned so much about black bears and continue to learn something every day. Thank you Dr. Rogers and Sue Mansfield! My fear has changed to respect - I marvel at the interaction between bears that I have observed and learned from.

I am a volunteer,and a proud supporter of the North American Bear Center,the researchers,the staff,and of course the resident bears Ted,Lucky,and Honey. I have learned so much about black bears,especially replacing misconceptions with scientific facts about bears, their role in ecosystems, and their relations with humans. I lean something new everyday thanks to Dr. Lynn Rogers,and Sue Mansfield. I'll be in Ely this July for the 4th annual Lily picnic and to see the new "Hope Learning Center".

The North American Bear Center has taught me so much about black bears! I TRULYleaned all the misconceptions and. I want to learn more about this fasinating creature!

The NABC have helped me become aware of the importance of co-existing with bears. And also the myth that they are furocious animals. I support them 100% and thank them for the knowledge they have shared.

The NABC is a wonderful interactive experience for children and adults alike, and provides detailed information on black bear ecology, biology and behaviors. I've been there three years in a row and it is always a terrific learning experience!

Fantastic operation on low budget. Friendly, knowledgeable staff and top quality exhibits with true bear information gleaned from first hand research not inferred from remote samples and prevailing opinion. My traditionally taught biological training was challenged and I walked away all the better for it. Please help support their critical mission. I can't think of a more dynamic organization!

Kara asked where the money went. Its never been a secret. At first the money went towards the huge debt for the existing facilities. Even before that was fully paid off a program was started to provide support for teachers in the classroom to educate students about black bears. Currently money is being raised for a new building to further support that education. Most of the staff are unpaid volenteers and even Dr Rogers recieves only a very modest salary. Its certainly not enough for the countless hours he devotes to bears. This is a great organization that has lready accomplished a lot and will continue to accomplish much more.

This non-profit ranks among the unique. The leaders, researchers, work 7 da/wk and easily 12-14 hrs./da. so that others will understand the important niche the American Black Bear holds in the world of wildlife and how humans can learn to co-exist with them. There are no big salaries or performance vehicles, only hours of forest trekking, data compiling and communication. The NABC is among the finest of non-profits-a gem of integrity and "do onto others".

If you want to learn about bears, especially black bears, the North American Bear Center in Ely, Minnesota is the place you must visit. Exhibits, lots of information, a cub room for kids and their three residents, Ted, Honey and Lucky. Three happy bears that live in one of the most beautiful natural enclosures one can find in the world. I visited last year and this summer I will cross the ocean again from Spain to visit the NABC´s and meet its wonderful staff. Bear lovers with the mission to educate the world about the true nature of black bears.

Last year i had the pleasure of visiting the N.A.B.C, It was a wonderful experience, the staff were more than helpful, so much to do and see, its not until you go there you realise how much you dont know about bears ! I learnt so much! seeing the 3 captive bears was the highlight for me, they have a wonderful natural area in which to forage like wild bears and a lovely pond too. I cant praise this organisation enough and i hope they get more visitors to learn about the wonderful Black Bear . I will be going back again this year! I live in the UK and it is worth the trip on so many levels, thank you Dr Lynn Rogers and his Biologist Sue Mansfield for giving me the chance to learn !

I found them to be inconsistent with what they tell you, always begging for money and yet the money does not seem to go for what they tell you initially. And be careful of the supporters still there for if you disagree, they name call, tell you to leave , and try to ruin you. The researchers and those involved are shrouded in secrecy and always telling volunteers not to tell anyone what you see like during hunting season when they were trying to keep hunters away and during trips to the center where you are allowed to kiss and touch the bears.

I've been to the North American Bear Center and I fully support their mission - to educate people about black bears. Dr. Lynn Rogers, Sue Mansfield and all the staff at the Bear Center are passionate about black bears and it shows. A previous reviewer, here Kara Johanson, is a former "disgruntled" moderator on Lily the Black Bear's Facebook page, who along with a few others, were let go from their moderating duties due to their extreme power trips. People complained about them, and they were let go, to start fresh with the FB page. "Kara" also known as Jill Wheaton Lindsay, has now made it her mission to find every outlet she can to discredit Lynn Rogers' work and slander him. It's called slander and harassment Jill. If you're not careful, you just might find yourself in an embarassing situation and in a bit o' trouble. ;) Your first mistake was accidentally "outing" yourself. LOL

If their expenses are only a third of their revenue, something is very questionable. Where does the rest of the money go and why do they keep begging for more?

what an awesome place learning about bears and how to live with them in peace, I used to be terribly afraid of black bears but have found out they are really gentle creayures who's lives are ruled by fear and hunger, Dr. Lynn Rogers and Sue Mansfield are truly wonderful educators, and have helped me overcome my fear of these north american treasures, we sould cherish them....... thank you