MEET OUR NEWEST SUN BEAR CUB
BOS Foundation’s Samboja Lestari Orangutan Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre is also a sanctuary for rescued sun bears. Recently, we welcomed a new arrival—a tiny sun bear cub named Andre, just around two months old.
In early July, a villager searching for wood in the heart of an industrial forest area stumbled upon a helpless sun bear cub. He was alone and without his mother in sight. Rather than keeping the cub as a pet, the resident made the compassionate choice to contact the Natural Resources Conservation Agency for proper care.
Frightened and fragile
When Andre first arrived, his frightened eyes and fragile body told the story of his ordeal. He recoiled from every human movement, avoiding contact. But there was one thing that could reach him: food. With patience and care, our dedicated sun bear team used this to gently coax him out of his enclosure, beginning his journey to trust and healing.
When he arrived, tiny sun bear Andre recoiled from every human movement, avoiding contact.
Emotional scars remain
Dr Muhtadin, one of our veterinarians, carefully examined Andre’s small body, which weighed less than 10 kilograms. Thankfully, the little cub was in good physical health with no wounds or signs of illness. But the emotional scars of being separated from his mother may still linger. Understanding this, our team is fully committed to helping Andre heal and grow, with the ultimate goal of preparing him for a future where he can thrive in the wild.
Preparing for the future
Andre is currently being fed milk, the most suitable food for his age and needs. However, the care team is gradually introducing a variety of fruits into his diet to give him an early taste of the larger world he will eventually explore. For now, Andre is placed in a designated baby bear area, away from the activities of the technicians and the adult sun bears. Here, he will begin developing skills to sharpen his survival instincts.
We hope Andre can grow and thrive during his rehabilitation, leading to a brighter future.
Photos: ©BOSF | Sylvateja
