A remarkable rescue mission brought Diego, a brown bear from Sweden, to the serene confines of Devon Wildlife Park near Exeter. This heartwarming story emerged as the result of a crisis at

the Orsa Predator Park in Sweden, which was closing its doors. In the face of closure, the Swedish zoo staff were instructed to euthanize the remaining animals. A conservation charity, Wildwood Trust, took action to save Diego, the last surviving bear at the park, from this bleak fate. Diego's timely rescue wouldn't have been possible without the compassion of Wildwood Trust.

Diego, weighing a colossal 57 stone (360 kg), embarked on a journey that led him to the Eurotunnel. Initially scheduled to travel by ferry, adverse weather conditions due to Storm Ciaran led to a last-minute change of plans, and Diego was transported by train. During the journey, the bear was accommodated in his own carriage, where he remained awake but tired and sleepy.

Upon his arrival in Devon at approximately 8:00 PM GMT on a rainy and windy Thursday night, Diego exhibited a remarkable calmness and ease as he was transferred to his new enclosure. The trust has pledged to house Diego temporarily over the winter, a period during which bears typically enter a state of "winter torpor," characterized by deep sleep for weeks or even months with brief periods of activity.

Jimmy Doherty, hailing from Jimmy's Farm and Wildlife Park in Ipswich, announced that Diego would eventually be relocated there. This act of kindness was crucial as Diego was one of the last remaining animals at the Swedish zoo, with the exception of a lynx.

Diego's saga showcases the positive outcomes that can arise from human kindness and cross-border cooperation. It was a complex mission, requiring the efforts of multiple organizations working closely with Sweden to ensure a smooth transition for Diego. Mark Habben, the director of zoological operations at Wildwood Trust, highlighted the tremendous support received from the people of Devon and Sweden throughout this endeavor.

Diego has earned a special place in the hearts of many and is regarded as a gentle and intelligent bear. This journey reflects the power of collective compassion and dedication. It illustrates that, even in challenging times, people and organizations can come together to ensure the well-being of animals, allowing them to thrive in a safe and welcoming environment.

In this heartening tale, the rescue of Diego, "the last remaining bear," represents a triumph of compassion, cooperation, and the unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives of animals in need. Photo by Yathin S Krishnappa, Wikimedia commons.