International Animal Rescue (IAR) is proud to announce the release of Challo and Lexi, two Syrian Brown Bears, on World Conservation Day. This momentous occasion, made possible by IAR and their partner, the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets (FPWC), marks the beginning of their new lives in the Armenian mountains.
The two bears were found separately as cubs, alone and vulnerable on the Armenian hillside. Challo was trapped in a wire snare and would have perished under the scorching summer sun if it weren’t for the timely intervention of IAR and FPWC. He was treated for heat stroke and his wounds were tended to before being taken to the FPWC wildlife centre in Urtsadzor for further care. Similarly, Lexi was discovered crying from a tree with no sign of her mother. She was also brought to the centre where both cubs underwent extensive rehabilitation, with minimal human interaction, in order to prepare them for their return to the wild. Through careful observation, environmental enrichment, and compassionate care, the bears were able to regain their natural instincts. Their journey culminated in a momentous release where they joyfully explored and settled into their natural habitat.
Alan Knight OBE, Chief Executive of International Animal Rescue, expressed his gratitude for the support of donors and partners, stating, “Releasing Challo and Lexi back into the wild serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of conservation efforts. These bears, who were once symbols of suffering, now embody hope and resilience. Thanks to the generosity of our donors and the dedication of our partners, they are able to live freely as nature intended. Witnessing their thriving in the mountains is an emotional moment and a testament to what we can achieve together.”
This release also serves as a reminder of IAR’s greater mission. In Armenia, dozens of Syrian Brown Bears are subjected to unimaginable suffering, confined to small cages in restaurants, factories, and roadside zoos. Many of these bears display signs of severe psychological trauma from years of neglect. Through their joint campaign, The Great Bear Rescue, IAR and FPWC have rescued over 30 bears since 2017, providing them with compassionate care and the opportunity to return to the wild whenever possible.
The journey of Challo and Lexi follows the success of previous releases, including the groundbreaking release of orphaned cubs Bambak and Zangak in 2018. These bears have thrived in their natural environment, showcasing the effectiveness of IAR’s rehabilitation program.
As the world celebrates World Conservation Day, International Animal Rescue urges the global community to reflect on the importance of conservation and join their mission to end the suffering of Armenia’s captive bears.
Join IAR in celebrating the incredible journey of Challo and Lexi and support their ongoing efforts to rescue more bears in need. Every donation or social media share will directly support their rescue operations, veterinary care, rehabilitation, and eventual release. Together, we can ensure that every bear gets the chance to live freely, as nature intended. To learn more about IAR’s inspiring stories or to support their efforts, visit www.internationalanimalrescue.org.
Distributed by https://pressat.co.uk/
