Bears in the Woods

Bankso, Bulgaria

The fencing was substantial (& electric)

We were off on a hot date!  Mercifully, the weather held and even sleepy bears managed to stay awake for our visit.  Our host had organised a trip up into the hills to visit the Belitsa Bear Sanctuary, home in a natural forested area for some badly mistreated ex-dancing bears.  Thankfully, training of dancing bears was prohibited in 1998 and now some 27 rescued bears have found a home in this peaceful sanctuary. 

The track up into the hills was quite muddy and farmers were clearly well into preparations for winter lock-down but the scenery was just stunning.  After some heroic driving, we arrived at the base of the sanctuary.  Yes, base.  There were just a few steps (did someone say 300 or so) to get to the top of the park.  Oh well, we did really need to walk off a few calories…

 

We saw the bears!  They were waiting for us, although some looked a little sleepy.  Clearly these once mistreated bears were happy in their new homes, with spacious accommodations, plenty to eat and trained staff to take care of them.  They have access to vet services and an ambulance is even on hand.  It is wonderful so see them offered a chance at a new life.  This park is funded by the Four Paws and the Brigitte Bardot Foundations.

A measure of the success of this park is that most bears are hibernating without assistance.  Even so, they’re not likely to ever be released into the wild as they just couldn’t cope. 

Now, meet some of our gorgeous friends: