Four Asian black bears, also known as moon bears, have arrived in Wales for the very first time — ahead of their new chapter at Manor Wildlife Park, Tenby.
The species is critically endangered due to a combination of habitat loss, poaching and illegal wildlife trade — with more than 10,000* moon bears estimated to still be held in bile farms in Asia alone.
But thanks to conservation efforts, Martha, Irene, Gigi (eleven) and Coco (nine) will now call the Moon Forest at Manor Wildlife Park home — complete with bear-shaped swimming pool; enormous climbing frames and hammocks; and plenty of hiding places.
What’s more, in a world first, two tunnels have been built linking the bears and tigers’ enclosures — allowing the species to swap into each other’s domains for enrichment purposes, in future.
Anna Ryder Richardson, owner of Manor Wildlife Park, said: “We are beyond thrilled to welcome our newest residents — four magnificent moon bears — to the park.
“These charismatic creatures, with their striking crescent-shaped chest markings and playful personalities, have already stolen the hearts of our team. We can’t wait for visitors to meet them in due course, and learn more about their journey and the vital work being done to protect the species in the wild.
“Their arrival marks an exciting new chapter in our mission to educate the public about endangered wildlife and support global conservation efforts. And with further new arrivals also anticipated in our tiger and red panda enclosures very soon, we have a very busy and exciting summer ahead!”
Asian black bears are native to 18 countries, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, India and Japan, and are known for their distinct V-shaped chest marking and white patch on their chin.
Adult females typically weigh between 65 and 90 kilograms, with a life expectancy of up to 25 years. And whilst there are no immediate plans to breed from the bears, the wildlife park may be advised to do so in future, by the wider breeding programme they are a part of.
Matt Hunt, CEO of Free the Bears — the charity which has helped rescue and rehabilitate over 1,000 of the world’s most vulnerable bears — added: “Free the Bears works with communities, schools and organisations across Asia to change attitudes and raise awareness of the wildlife trade. We also work with government, law enforcement agencies and other charities to create and implement a framework to combat wildlife traders.
“Despite each country facing a unique set of challenges and issues to overcome, and combined with the conservation efforts of wildlife parks like Anna’s, we will continually strive to achieve our mission of protecting, preserving and enriching the lives of bears throughout the world.”
Later this year, Anna plans to host a teddy bear’s picnic event at Manor Wildlife Park, with all funds raised to go towards Free the Bears’ essential work.
