The Story:

For generations, India’s “dancing bears”—Indian Sloth Bears—were captured as cubs, subjected to brutal training, and forced to perform on streets across the country. Their handlers, known as Qalandars, passed this cruel tradition through generations.

The Transformation:

Wildlife SOS has rescued approximately 1,200 sloth bears from this practice, with 270 currently residing at the Agra facility. But this isn’t just an animal rescue—it’s community transformation:

Bear Rehabilitation:

• 270 rescued Indian Sloth Bears in a controlled natural habitat
• Professional wildlife expert care 24/7
• Medical treatment and behavioural rehabilitation
• Healthcare monitoring
• Species-appropriate enrichment activities

Qalandar Community Rehabilitation:

• Former bear handlers trained in alternative livelihoods
• Small shops and enterprises established
• Women receive vocational training in arts and crafts
• Products sold in Wildlife SOS shops within the facility
• Children are provided with formal schooling

Additional Facilities:

• Elephant Conservation: 5 rescued elephants in a facility 12km from the Bear Centre (established Nov 2010)
• Eco-Village: 2-acre ethnic eco-village under development with modern amenities, available for group lunches

Visit Information:

• Open: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (24/7 operational facility)
• No tickets required, but prior coordination is essential
• Witness bear enrichment activities
• Meet the rehabilitation staff
• Learn about conservation efforts

Support Opportunities:

• Bolero Camper Ambulance/Rescue vehicle: ₹650,000
• Hospital equipment for animal care: ₹10,000–₹400,000
• Eco Tourism Tribal Village construction: ₹1,000,000 (full or partial)
• Elephant Rehabilitation Centre setup: ₹800,000
• Sponsor education for Qalandar children: ₹3,000–₹7,000/year
• General donations for daily operations