22 Bears that lived in Poor quality conditions in South Korea have been moved to the new Wild Animal Refuge in Baca County. These bears are Moon Bears, or more Scientifically, Asiatic Black Bears. These bears were used for Gall Bladder and Bile transfusions, which were very painful. Asian communities started looking down on the practice, and eventually the bears were sterilized to prevent further breeding and exploitation.
In 2020, the Korean Animal Welfare Association came up with a plan to move nearly 300 bears to the United States for care. But Covid hit, and transportation became impossible. Now, things are moving a bit better, and 22 of the bears have been brought to Springfield Colorado, to the new Wild Animal Refuge. For some of these bears, this was the first time they walked on real grass. Until their release, they lived their entire lives in a metal cage with bars on the floor. Each bear was kept in their own area at the Refuge for observation by Staff Veterinarians, and the animals seem to be adapting well.
The Wild Animal Refuge was built by the same people who run the Keenesburg Wild Animal Sanctuary, which has taken in over 700 various animals, including some of Joe Exotic’s Farm. The new Reserve is just under 10,000 acres, making it the Largest Animal Rescue in the World. To Compare, the Keenesburg one is 789 Acres. As of right now, the public is not allowed to visit the Refuge. Springfield is a 4 Hour Drive South East from Denver, and the last 30 miles is dirty backroads, which can become mud in inclement weather. So for safety, you can’t really go see the animals.
If you would like to see wildlife, the Keenesburg Sanctuary is just 40 Minutes outside of Denver, on Paved Roads all the way. Plus they have a really cool walkway that gets you pretty close to the animals, while keeping both of you safe. Both locations are non profit centers, and donations are greatly appreciated.
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