Video: The Bear Baloo, Tethered for Years, is Now Happy

In March 2018, Baloo the bear was transferred from Verin Artashat to the Wildlife Rescue Center (WRC), where he faced severe psychological and behavioral issues. Thanks to the efforts of the specialists at the wildlife rescue center, Baloo is now thriving, as shown in the video.

While Baloo still retains some unpleasant memories of his previous living conditions and care, ongoing daily efforts are addressing these challenges. The WRC has sheltered over ten rescued brown bears from unfavorable conditions in various private areas across Armenia.

These animals have been relocated to the rescue center as part of the Bear Rescue Project (The Great Bear Rescue), which is conducted in collaboration with the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Values (FPWC) and the International Animal Rescue (IAR). The bears have been rescued from various locations, including restaurants and cheese factories.

For years, Baloo lived in a backyard in Verin Artashat, chained up, until his transfer in 2018 to a facility that provides better conditions. The center's specialists show special attention to all bears rescued as part of the bear rescue program. By studying each bear's needs, characteristics, and physical data, our experts devise special diets, engage them with various activities, and ensure they are in high spirits.

For instance, the video showcases a segment of the activities designed to keep the bears occupied. In addition to receiving natural food, the bears are also provided with necessary means of engagement, thanks to the creativity of our specialists. This creates an environment where the bears can independently work to 'forage' for their food, allowing vital instinctual processes to occur.

As of today, approximately 20 bears remain imprisoned in various private facilities across Armenia, in need of professional assistance while waiting for their turn for rescue.

Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Values (FPWC)