AssetID: 53079860
Headline: RAW VIDEO: Yampil The Ukrainian Bear Rescued From War Zone And Heading To Scotland
Caption: West Lothian, Scotland’s Five Sisters Zoo is to have a very special new resident - Yampil the Asiatic Black Bear. This remarkable mammal originally hails from a war-torn village in Ukraine, and has miraculously survived the conflict that ravaged his homeland. Yampil's story began in the village of Yampil, Ukraine, where Ukrainian soldiers, after five months of Russian occupation, stumbled upon an abandoned zoo. Among the nearly 200 animals that once called the Yampil zoo home, Yampil the bear was one of the fortunate few who managed to survive the invasion. Staff at the Five Sisters Zoo, known for its dedicated rescue work and commitment to endangered animals, first learned about Yampil from the Belgian charity, Natuur Hulp Centrum. With a track record of rescuing various species from around the world since its establishment in 2005, the family-owned zoo felt compelled to intervene and offer Yampil a second chance at life. The bear was aptly named after the village where he was found. The United Nations reports that over 13 million Ukrainians have been displaced from their homes since the onset of Russia's devastating conflict, with millions seeking refuge both internally and abroad. Countless animals were left behind in dire conditions, forced to fend for themselves amidst the chaos of Russian attacks and harsh weather. To provide Yampil with the care and environment he deserves, the zoo estimates it will need to invest approximately £200,000 in constructing a new enclosure. The Five Sisters Zoo is inviting individuals to contribute to this effort, along with supporting the ongoing costs of Yampil's upkeep and veterinary care throughout his life. Donations can be made to the fundraiser. Brian Curran, owner of Five Sisters Zoo, expressed his heartfelt commitment to Yampil's welfare: "When we learned of the horrendous treatment and conditions Yampil endured, our hearts broke. We were astounded by his resilience. Despite the significant financial commitment, we knew we had to offer Yampil a fresh start. We have rescued bears before and have exceptional facilities. However, Yampil, as the first rescued Asiatic Black Bear under our care, necessitates a specialized enclosure to meet his unique needs. While we understand the financial challenges many are facing, we warmly welcome any support and generous donations from those who can contribute." Ukrainian soldiers sought assistance from animal welfare volunteers to rescue animals affected by the war, including Natuur Hulp Centrum. Frederik Thoelen, a spokesperson for the charity, remarked, "If any animal deserves a brighter future, it's undoubtedly Yampil, a victim of war. Based on our previous experiences, we are confident that Five Sisters Zoo can provide this magnificent Asiatic Black Bear with the future he truly deserves. We are immensely grateful for their commitment to Yampil's welfare."
Keywords: west lothian,ukraine,russia,bear,animal,ursine,natural world,nature
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