International Animal Rescue (IAR) is excited to announce World Sloth Bear Day on October 12th, 2024. This day celebrates the unique charm and resilience of sloth bears, with a heartwarming story of one of their beloved bears, Mithali.
Mithali’s journey began when she and her sibling were found trapped in a dry well with their deceased mother at just 20 weeks old. Despite their dire circumstances, the two orphaned cubs have shown remarkable courage in overcoming adversity, much like their namesakes, Indian cricket legends Mithali Raj and Mahendra Singh Dhoni.
With the dedicated care provided by IAR, Wildlife SOS, and the Bear Rescue Centre (BBRC) team, Mithali and her sibling are learning to thrive in a safe environment. They have slowly come out of their shells and are embracing life with newfound hope, as seen in Mithali’s recent indulgence in a pot of honey.
On this special day, we celebrate and share some unique facts about sloth bears, who hold a significant place in Indian mythology. These bears are classified as vulnerable by the IUCN Red List, primarily due to habitat loss and poaching. Awareness days like World Sloth Bear Day help raise awareness for their conservation needs.
Sloth bears are known for their shaggy fur and long claws, which are uniquely adapted for digging for insects and honeycomb, showcasing their essential role in the ecosystem. It is imperative that we coexist with these magnificent creatures and raise awareness about their plight, as emphasized by Gavin Bruce, CEO at International Animal Rescue.
As we celebrate World Sloth Bear Day, we invite everyone to join us in supporting Mithali and her sibling’s journey towards a bright future. Your support is crucial in ensuring these incredible bears continue receiving the love and care they deserve. For more information on how you can help, please visit https://www.internationalanimalrescue.org/projects/indian-sloth-bear.
Let us all spread the word about the importance of conserving sloth bears and their habitats. International Animal Rescue is proud to partner with Wildlife SOS and their exceptional work in collaboration with local communities. Together, we can make a positive impact on the lives of sloth bears and ensure their survival for generations to come.