The path from the concrete cage to the mountain forest
Until recently, Gordo and Florence were forced to live in extremely unsuitable conditions in a former zoo in the city of Luján, near the capital Buenos Aires. This zoo was finally closed in 2020, but the animals remained captive to the concrete.
Instead of roaming through miles of forest, as is their natural need, they have spent their lives in cramped cages measuring just 12 square meters. Lack of exercise and an unhealthy diet have taken their toll. Gordo arrived weighing 350 kg – well above the healthy norm for his age and species, while Florence weighs around 110 kg. Neither animal has had the opportunity to step on real soil, grass or snow before arriving in Bulgaria.
Bear's "jet lag": How does the climate affect the new inhabitants?
One of the biggest challenges facing these bears from Argentina in Belitsa is the abrupt change in climate and the reversal of seasons. Gordo and Florence literally took off from the end of the South American summer and landed in the middle of the Bulgarian winter. The temperature difference they have to deal with is over 30 degrees Celsius.
Will Gordo and Florence hibernate?
The question of the biological clock of animals is extremely interesting. In Argentina, temperatures rarely drop so low as to provoke the natural instinct to hibernate (winter sleep). Therefore, these bears have never fallen into a deep winter sleep. The expectations of the experts from "Four Paws" are as follows:
- This season: The bears will not go into full hibernation. Their bodies are set to summer mode and have not accumulated the specific fats needed for winter sleep. They will spend the next few months in special adaptation sectors with thick layers of straw to protect them from the cold.
- Next year: Their biological clocks are expected to synchronize with our hemisphere in the spring and summer. By next winter, they should regain their natural instincts and dig their dens.
The Bear Park above Belitsa: A piece of paradise near Bansko
The Bear Park near Belitsa, jointly managed by Four Paws and the Brigitte Bardot Foundation, is one of the most significant places for animal protection in the Balkans. It provides vast forest areas where rescued bears can exhibit their natural behavior. For guests and residents of Bansko, Razlog and the surrounding settlements, the park is not only a tourist attraction, but also an educational center.
The arrival of the new bears marks a new stage in the park's development. To reduce the stress of the trip, Gordo and Florence's first meals on Bulgarian soil included their favorite treats – fresh grapes and apples.
What's next for Gordo and Florence?
The bears are currently in a mandatory quarantine period. During this time, a team of veterinarians and keepers will closely monitor their health, weight, and behavior. Once they are sure that the animals are completely healthy and adapted to their new environment, they will be released into the large forest enclosures.
The story of these rescued animals proves that with joint efforts from institutions, airports, pilots, and NGOs, we can provide wildlife with a second chance.
English (UK)