IBA Vision:
IBA envisions a world where all 8 bear species can thrive and coexist with humans.
IBA Mission:
IBA advances scientific understanding and global conservation of the world’s 8 bear species.
News & Events

Thanks to our friends at Kodiak Cakes and Vital Ground for raising awareness of bears
Read MoreConservation Candy and IBA Work Together to Help Bears
Read MoreIBA’s 2022 Bear Conservation Fund Annual Report Available
Read More
Expanded BearWise Outreach Program
Read MoreNo upcoming events at the moment.
Check back soon!
Bear conservation fund
Do you want to help support research that provides scientific information for protecting the world’s 8 bear species? Whether you want to donate $5.00 or $5,000 dollars, any amount helps! Learn more about how to protect bears through our donation program. All BCF funds go directly to research projects. We thank you for your support!


Bear Specialist Group
The Bear Specialist Group (BSG) is one of more than 140 Specialist Groups, Red List Authorities, and Task Forces established by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and The Species Survival Commission (SCC). In the early days, IBA was approached by the IUCN to help with the founding of a Bear Specialist Group (BSG). As the relationship evolved, BSG became a separate unit and now appoints its own members. However, IBA and BSG maintain a close working relationship, prepare a joint newsletter, and IBA provides many benefits to the BSG. These benefits include an introductory 1-year complimentary IBA membership for new IBA/BSG members, access to IBA grants, funds and support for the BSG operations, a dedicated BSG session and meetings at IBA conferences, and access to IBA’s peer reviewed journal, URSUS. Today, members of the BSG are appointed by the BSG co-chairs.
Education & Resources
The members of IBA have a rich and diverse background in all areas of bear ecology. Whether you are looking for information about basic bear biology/ecology, conservation, management, research, policy, or bear welfare, IBA is your resource providing access to bear experts around the world.
What is the impact of an IBA Grant?


