Northeast Desk, 3rd May: A one-month-old male Asiatic black bear cub was recently rescued from Sagalee in Papum Pare district by the Environment, Forest & Climate Change Department. Following the rescue, the cub was entrusted to the care of the Centre for Bear Rehabilitation and Conservation (CBRC) at the Pakke Tiger Reserve.
Suspected to have been separated from its poached mother, the cub marks the 85th bear cub received by the CBRC since its establishment in 2004. Supported by the International Fund for Animal Welfare and Kirloskar Ebara Pumps Limited, the CBRC stands as the sole Indian facility dedicated to rehabilitating orphaned bear cubs.
Upon arrival, the cub, initially dehydrated and weighing a mere 2.3 kgs, is now exhibiting signs of improved health under the CBRC’s care. The Asiatic black bear, classified as ‘vulnerable’ by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, faces numerous threats, including habitat loss and poaching.
At the CBRC, bear cubs undergo a rehabilitation process mirroring their natural upbringing, encompassing acclimatisation, weaning, and regular forest walks. Additionally, the centre conducts awareness campaigns to deter the hunting of these endangered species.
The Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), serving as a co-runner of the CBRC, boasts a remarkable track record of saving over 50,000 animal lives, training over 20,000 forest staffers, and contributing to the establishment of seven protected areas over its 25 years of operations.
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