Black bear saved by Ukrainian soldiers rehomed at Scotland zoo | UK News

A black bear who survived the war in Ukraine has successfully been rehomed at a zoo in Scotland.

Yampil the bear was one of the only animals out of 200 to survive at an abandoned zoo in Yampil, Ukraine, five months into the war in July 2022.

But from the early hours of this morning he now calls Five Sisters Zoo in West Calder, West Lothian, his new home.

The zoo has so far raised £60,000 out of a £200,000 target from individual donations and local businesses to build his new permanent home.

Staff at Five Sisters heard about him from Belgian animal welfare charity Natuurhulpcentrum which cared for him after his rescue.

Brian Curran, owner of Five Sisters Zoo, said: ‘When we were made aware of the awful treatment and conditions Yampil was subjected to, our hearts broke; we were just so amazed he was still alive and well.

‘When the volunteers found Yampil, a shell had not long exploded near his cage, and he was concussed.

‘He was in terrible condition; five more days and they wouldn’t have been able to save him.

‘Bears, just like people, can suffer mental health issues similar to post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD) after they’ve been through something really traumatic.

‘That’s why we have the best team on hand to care for him and help make this transition as peaceful and calm for him as possible.’

Amid the Russian invasion and cold weather countless animals have been left behind and forced to fend for themselves.

More than 13 million Ukrainians have fled their homes which includes seven million refugees and 6.5 million internally displaced according to the UN.

Mr Curran added: ‘We have rescued bears before and have some terrific facilities.

‘However, Yampil is the first rescued Asiatic black bear we will care for, and he requires a whole new enclosure to match his special needs.

‘That’s why Yampil is now settling into a temporary enclosure where he will continue his recovery, or go into hibernation; this will give us time to continue to fundraise for his permanent enclosure and work on building this with the support of our community.

‘We are well aware of the cost-of-living crisis and of people’s difficult financial situations, but should anyone be in a position to help, we would really welcome their support and generous donations.’

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