The joint efforts of the Foundation for the Conservation of Wildlife and Cultural Values (FPWC) and International Animal Rescue (IAR) managed to save and return to the wild a grizzly bear that was involved in a car accident.
The young bear, named Ricky after British comedian Ricky Gervais, spent two weeks at the Urtsadzor Wildlife Rescue Center (WRC). Famous British actor and IAR supporter Peter Egan was present at the operation to release the animal. He is best known for his role in the British historical drama TV series "Downton Abbey." According to FPWC veterinarian Harutyun Hovhannisyan, "The bear's lower lip injury was stitched up at the scene.
No fractures were found, only a slight injury to the leg. The bear appeared disoriented when admitted to the center, but quickly recovered. We vaccinated him and checked him for rabies and other diseases. Two weeks later, the bear was completely healthy."
The rescue operation was attended by FPWC and IAR specialists, representatives from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Vayots Dzor regional administration. IAR president Alan Knight said: "Most of our work in Armenia is related to rescuing bears that have spent years in cages and can no longer return to the wild. It's sad. So the opportunity to save a young, healthy animal and return it to its natural environment is truly inspiring for us."
It should be reminded that the driver reported the accident on October 1, after which the bear was taken to the Urtsadzor rescue center. In the quarantine department, the bear displayed the behavior of a real wild animal. he seemed to want to break the freedom cages and regain his freedom. The Wildlife and Cultural Heritage Conservation (FPWC) team is delighted that we all succeeded.
