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Four endangered moon bears arrive at wildlife park

Eleri Griffiths
BBC News
Manor Wildlife Park A large black bear with it's mouth open looking at the camera. Manor Wildlife Park
The four Asian black bears, also known as moon bears, arrived at Manor Wildlife Park in Tenby on 27 June after being rescued from poor conditions

Four critically endangered Asian black bears, also known as moon bears, have arrived in Wales for the first time.

Rescued from poor conditions, Martha, Irene, Gigi, and Coco arrived at Manor Wildlife Park in Tenby, Pembrokeshire, on 27 June to enjoy a custom-built habitat complete with pools, climbing frames, and a hammock.

Their arrival highlights global conservation efforts, supported by the wildlife park and the charity Free the Bears, which has rescued more than 1,000 vulnerable black bears from across Asia.

Anna Ryder Richardson, owner of Manor Wildlife Park, said she looks forward to visitors meeting the "magnificent" bears and learning about efforts to protect the species.

Manor Wildlife Park A large black bear leaning on a big piece of wood. The bear's hands are wrapped around the wood. It's eyes are open and it's looking at the camera. Manor Wildlife Park
The bears will enjoy a custom-built habitat complete with pools, climbing frames, and hammock at Manor Wildlife Park

Critically endangered due to habitat loss, poaching, and the illegal wildlife trade, more than 10,000 moon bears are still believed to be held in bile farms.

Native to 18 countries, Asian black bears are known for their V-shaped chest markings and white patch on their chin.

Adult females typically weigh between 65kg (143lb) and 90kg (198lb), with a life expectancy of up to 25 years.

While there are no current plans to breed the bears, the Manor Wildlife Park said it may do so under guidance from the wider breeding programme.

Watch as the bears arrive at Manor Park in Tenby

Ms Ryder Richardson said the park is "beyond thrilled" to welcome the moon bears.

"These charismatic creatures, with their striking crescent-shaped chest markings and playful personalities, have already stolen the hearts of our team," she added.

Ms Ryder Richardson said their arrival marks a new "exciting" chapter in the park's mission, with more animals expected this summer in the tiger and red panda enclosures, she added.

She also explained in a "world first", two tunnels will link the new Asian black bears enclosure to the tigers', allowing species to swap spaces for enrichment.

Manor Wildlife Park A large black bear leaning on it's right side with its arms and legs in the air. Manor Wildlife Park
Native to 18 countries, Asian black bears are known for their V-shaped chest markings and white patch on their chin

Chief executive of Free the Bears Matt Hunt said the charity works across Asia to raise awareness of the wildlife trade and support enforcement efforts to combat it.

He added that, despite challenges, they remain committed to "protecting, preserving, and enriching" the lives of bears worldwide, alongside partners such as Manor Wildlife Park.