Home / Environment / Bears Escape Russian Cages for Irish Sanctuary
Bears Escape Russian Cages for Irish Sanctuary
25 Oct
Summary
- Two bears rescued after years in cramped Russian cages.
- Rescue journey spanned five years and involved over 100 people.
- Bears suffered severe malnutrition and psychological trauma.
Two brown bears, Bu and Tyapa, have begun a new life at Wild Ireland sanctuary in County Donegal after a complex, five-year rescue mission. The bears were originally from Russia's Republic of Dagestan, where they endured deplorable conditions. One bear, Bu, had spent years performing in a circus, while Tyapa was confined to a cage too small to stand upright.
Their rescue journey, initiated in 2021, was fraught with difficulties. The bears were in extremely poor health upon initial rescue, suffering from malnutrition and psychological trauma, with blood tests revealing kidney problems due to dehydration. Original transport plans were thwarted by Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, and subsequent attempts were disrupted by conflicts in the Middle East in February 2026.
Over 100 people, including numerous specialists and officials across Russia, the UAE, and Ireland, were involved in the operation. After being freed from their cages and receiving veterinary care at a sanctuary near St. Petersburg, Bu and Tyapa finally traveled from Moscow via Abu Dhabi to Dublin in August.
Since their arrival at Wild Ireland, the bears have shown remarkable recovery. They have gained weight, their coats have improved, and their kidney function has normalized. The sanctuary provides them with a spacious habitat designed to encourage natural behaviours and aid their psychological healing.
