Orphaned Himalayan bear cubs fight for survival at Pakistan's Tiger Center

Two orphaned Himalayan bear cubs have arrived at the Tiger Center in Pakistan for urgent care. The young bears, found in critical condition after their mother died, are now being nursed back to health by staff. The cubs were discovered severely malnourished and suffering from hypothermia, requiring immediate intervention. At the center, they are being bottle-fed milk to help them regain strength.

Since opening in 2018, the Tiger Center has rehabilitated 12 Himalayan bears by 2026, with around 85% of these animals being released back into the wild. Conservation efforts in the region, such as anti-poaching patrols and habitat corridors in the Hindu Kush, have supported their recovery. Community education programmes have also cut bear-human conflicts by 40%, according to the Pakistan Wildlife Foundation.

Meanwhile, another rescued bear, a female named Masha, has been moved to Malinki Park in Rostov Oblast. Her fangs were surgically removed before relocation, likely due to past injuries or behavioural concerns.

The two cubs will remain under close supervision as they recover. Their progress will depend on continued feeding and medical support. If successful, they may eventually join the growing number of rehabilitated bears returned to their natural habitat.