During times of war, sadly many animals are often left behind and become the voiceless victims of these crises. This was unfortunately the case at Zoopark Bilyts'ke, a private zoo located only ten kilometres from the current frontline of the war in Ukraine. Our brave Wild Animal Rescue team, risked grave danger to rescue two brown bears trapped in the facility. 

The zoo, which previously housed bears and big cats among other wild animals, suffered significant damage when it was hit by missiles at the end of September 2024 and again in October 2024. This jeopardised the lives of the animals and caused immense suffering. 

The two bears were rescued by Wild Animal Rescue, who we have worked with before on a previous rescue mission, and asked FOUR PAWS for urgent help with temporarily accommodation. 

The female bear was transported first to the White Rock Shelter, a facility of the Save Wild Fund near Kyiv. From there she was moved to our BEAR SANCTUARY Domazhyr. Meanwhile, the male bear was evacuated from the zoo and directly transferred to Domazhyr by Wild Animal Rescue. An experienced team of bear experts is now ensuring that both bears receive all the care they need after the traumatic events of the past few weeks. 

Both bears were in urgent need of a species-appropriate home, so they will temporarily remain in Ukraine while they recover from their ordeal. We are working with the European Alliance of Rescue Centres and Sanctuaries (EARS) to find a long-term home for the two bears outside of Ukraine. Both bears are eating well and are looking healthy. Dina loves treats like mandarins and grapes, while Potapych likes apples and eggs the most.  

Once they are ready, we will support with their relocation out of the country. This will also mean we will be able to utilise the enclosures for future rescues. Our top priority right now is ensuring they are safe and away from the frontline of the war.