Animals Asia receives a moon bear from Lao Cai

The moon bear was discovered by local residents and reported to the authorities of Lao Cai province. According to legal regulations, the moon bear, an endangered wildlife species, is considered evidence of a violation.

After being transferred by the Forest Protection Department to the University of Science for examination, the results confirmed that this is a male moon bear. The owner admitted to receiving this bear from an acquaintance around 2016-2017 and kept it as a pet.

To ensure the bear's health and safety, on the night of December 20th, the Lao Cai Forest Protection Department, Bao Thang District Police, and Animals Asia transported the bear to the Vietnam Bear Rescue Center at Tam Dao National Park in Vinh Phuc province. There, doctors and care staff conducted a clinical health check and placed the bear under 30-day quarantine care. Experts noted that the bear is relatively thin, weighing 83 kg, has poor teeth but is agile. Christmas the bear will undergo a comprehensive health check and begin the recovery process in an internationally standardized care environment.

The Representative for Vietnam of the Animals Asia Organization, Mrs. Heidi Quine, highly appreciates the coordination and timely actions of the authorities in Lao Cai province in rescuing the bear. The quick response and willingness to undertake a 10-hour journey to bring the bear to safety at the rescue center demonstrate the commitment and determination of the authorities in protecting the rare bear species and ending the practice of bear bile farming in Vietnam.

Mrs. Heidi also shared that the bear was named 'Christmas' because its arrival is like a special gift during the holiday season. She confirmed that the bear will receive attentive care at the center.

The Christmas moon bear is the 14th bear rescued by Animals Asia in 2024. Currently, nearly 200 moon bears and sun bears are being cared for according to international standards at two Bear Rescue Centers in Vietnam, which the organization operates and funds, located in Tam Dao National Park in Vinh Phuc province and Bach Ma National Park in Thua Thien - Hue province.