Manor Wildlife Park near Tenby has welcomed four critically endangered moon bears. Four Asian black bears, also known as moon bears, arrived in Wales on June 27 for the very first time — ahead of their new chapter at Manor Wildlife Park in St Florence. The species is critically endangered due to a combination of habitat loss, poaching and illegal wildlife trade — with more than 10,000* moon bears estimated to still be held in bile farms in Asia alone. But thanks to conservation efforts, Martha, Irene, Gigi (eleven) and Coco (nine) will now call the Moon Forest at Manor Wildlife Park home — complete with bear-shaped swimming pool; enormous climbing frames and hammocks; and plenty of hiding places. What’s more, in a world first, two tunnels have been built linking the bears and tigers’ enclosures — allowing the species to swap into each other’s domains for enrichment purposes, in future. Anna Ryder Richardson, owner of Manor Wildlife Park, said: “We are beyond thrilled to welcome our newest residents — four magnificent moon bears — to the park. “These charismatic creatures, with their striking crescent-shaped chest markings and playful personalities, have already stolen the hearts of our team. We can’t wait for visitors to meet them in due course, and learn more about their journey and the vital work being done to protect the species in the wild. “Their arrival marks an exciting new chapter in our mission to educate the public about endangered wildlife and support global conservation efforts. And with further new arrivals also anticipated in our tiger and red panda enclosures very soon, we have a very busy and exciting summer ahead!”
