June 2025 Update: Please scroll down for our tribute to DJ, one of the American black bears at Bear Hollow Zoo. We remain committed to completing these projects so that the two remaining black bears, Athena and Yonah, can enjoy them.

Your gift to our campaign will fund enhancements to the bear night area, such as installing permanent den boxes, new mesh panels, and automatic waterers. These and similar projects facilitate animal care efficiency, bear interactions with zoo staff, and health checks. They may even thwart a certain bear who likes to destroy every water container she's given. Our goal is to provide $10,000 so that zoo leaders can plan for these installations. All contributions are an ongoing legacy for one of the most cherished facilities in Athens, Georgia! Can you donate today to support bear night area projects (NAP) at Bear Hollow Zoo?

Our Community Mourns DJ the American Black Bear

It's with a heavy heart that we share the sad news that DJ, one of the beloved American black bears at Bear Hollow Zoo, was humanely euthanized on May 30, 2025. DJ was approximately 22 years old, which is a normal lifespan for a bear in managed care and surpasses the typical lifespan in the wild. This difficult decision was made by both zoo and veterinary staff following a decline in his health and quality of life. He was surrounded with love and will be deeply missed by all of us.

Friends of Bear Hollow, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located in Athens, Georgia. Donations to Friends of Bear Hollow support Bear Hollow Zoo projects and FOBH operations.

Operation NAP

By Friends of Bear Hollow, Inc.

Operation NAP

Donate today to fund Night Area Projects for the bears at Bear Hollow Zoo.