In late September 2024, Free the Bears rescued two bear cubs in Laos.
In late September 2024, Free the Bears rescued two bear cubs in Laos. The team first responded to a sun bear cub with a severe snare wound, traveling over 1,000 km to save her. Along the way, they were alerted to a second, orphaned moon bear cub found in the capital, Vientiane. Both cubs, around 4 months old and weighing 5kg, were safely confiscated by the government and are now recovering at the sanctuary.
The sun bear had to undergo leg amputation due to her injuries, but she’s showing incredible resilience. Both cubs are gaining strength and are expected to live healthy, happy lives. This rescue marks Free the Bears’ 32nd bear rescue in 2024!
For more, check out the rescue video: Double Bear Cub Rescue!
Since 2011, Colchester Zoo has proudly supported Free the Bears, donating over £63,000 to help protect rescued bears. This support has contributed to important initiatives like tracking wild bear populations, developing sanctuaries, and promoting welfare for animals saved from the illegal wildlife trade. Over the years, the number of bears in care has grown from fewer than 170 in 2011 to 301 today.
Rescue Highlights of 2024:
In just the first 10 months of 2024, Free the Bears rescued 32 bears, with 29 in Laos and 3 in Cambodia. This included the largest-ever seizure of bear cubs, with 16 cubs saved in March. These rescues brought the total bear population in Laos to 136, with Cambodia housing 119 and Vietnam 46.
Training and Expansion Efforts:
To support growing rescue efforts, more than 40 government officers in Laos completed a special wildlife care course. This training is already making a difference, with many of the new 2024 rescues led by course graduates.
Colchester Zoo’s Continued Support in 2023:
In 2023, Colchester Zoo’s donation of £7,500 helped Free the Bears hire a second veterinarian and purchase an ultra-deep freezer for wildlife research in Laos. This new equipment supports the first veterinary hospital for wildlife in Laos, which is now a hub for sample storage and vital research, including bear health studies and disease prevention.
Veterinary and Educational Progress:
With a second vet on board in 2023, Free the Bears has boosted its capacity to care for wildlife. The team has also begun training future veterinarians, hosting interns and students in wildlife medicine programs in 2024.
Looking Ahead:
As Free the Bears continues to rescue more bears, they are expanding their sanctuary spaces to provide the best care. Long-term goals include rehabilitating and returning these bears to the wild where possible, ensuring their future is as bright as their past has been protected.
