Saying goodbye to gentle Masha the bear

Image: AMP

On March 21, the Eurasian brown bear was taken on a 140-mile journey across war-torn Ukraine to the Romanian border by Ukraine animal charity, Warriors of Wildlife. There, they were met by Millions of Friends (AMP), who joined them in transporting the 22-year-old bear to their Libearty Bear Sanctuary.

Masha was a sweet, elderly bear who enjoyed exploring her new forest home and newly found freedom.

Marie Chambers, Network Manager (Bears), World Animal Protection said:

“After 19 years of being kept in a tiny cage and forced to perform in the circus, the 22-year-old bear arrived just three weeks ago and in this short time we were delighted at how she responded to her newly found freedom. She was able to play in the grass, scratch trees and paddle in her pool.

“We are happy that Masha’s last weeks were spent surrounded by nature with the freedom to explore, and she received the best care possible. But we are all heart-broken at this news. May she now rest in peace."

Masha was a brave bear. She spent most of her life caged or forcibly doing tricks like riding a bike to noisy music and circus crowds. Despite this stress, she embarked on a 30-hour journey to be at Libearty Bear Sanctuary.

Although Masha was shy when she arrived at her new home, she soon found her footing. For the first time in her life, Masha could finally choose what to do - to have a lazy den day, an adventurous forest expedition, or a cool dip in the pool. 

Masha at the Libearty sanctuary. Credit: AMP

Thanks to people like you, over 130 rescued bears like Masha are living on the sanctuary's 69 hectares of oak forest. You can watch a live stream of the furry residents of Libearty.

“We are happy that Masha’s last weeks were spent surrounded by nature with the freedom to explore, and she received the best care possible. But we are all heart-broken at this news. May she now rest in peace.