The Bear Specialist Group is the bear taxon expert focal group of the Species Survival Commission of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. In coordination with the International Association for Bear Research and Management, also known as the International Bear Association (IBA), the group provides information on biodiversity conservation, faunal group function in range countries, and ecosystem health as it pertains to bear habitat. The SSC members provide scientific advice to NGOs, government agencies and other IUCN members and support the implementation of multilateral environmental agreements affecting the eight extant species of bears and their habitat. Members of the specialist group provide guidance to bear conservation projects and initiatives, such as restoration efforts, and the handling of confiscated specimens. The Co-chairs of the Bear Specialist Group are Drs. Dave Garshelis and Bruce McLellan.[1]