October 12th marks a global tribute to the resilience of sloth bears as International Animal Rescue (IAR) invites everyone to celebrate World Sloth Bear Day! This day not only honours the beauty of these unique creatures but also highlights the ongoing efforts to protect them from extinction.
This year’s celebration features Mithali, one of the rescued sloth bears, enjoying a well-deserved pot of honey, symbolising the strength and recovery journey of these magnificent animals. Mithali’s inspiring story began when she and her sibling were found trapped in a dry well, clinging to their deceased mother after a terrifying ordeal. They were discovered by IAR’s partner, Wildlife SOS, in India, who, alongside local communities, worked tirelessly to save the cubs and nurse them back to health.
A Journey of Resilience
Inspired by two of India’s legendary cricketers Mithali Raj, the trailblazing former captain of the women’s national cricket team, and Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the celebrated captain who led India to triumph in the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup—the cubs embody courage and perseverance. Despite the tragic loss of their mother and the trauma they faced, these two sloth bear cubs have emerged victorious. Their recovery reflects the same grit and resilience seen in their namesakes.
Under the care of IAR, Wildlife SOS, and the dedicated team at the Bear Rescue Centre (BBRC), Mithali and her sibling, affectionately called Maahi, are now thriving. Under the watchful guidance of Ankita Bear, a maternal figure at the rescue centre, they are gradually regaining confidence and enjoying life’s little joys—like their love for honey.
World Sloth Bear Day: Raising Awareness
World Sloth Bear Day is not only a time for celebrating these wonderful creatures but also a moment to reflect on the need for conservation. Sloth bears are a vulnerable species, with only 6,000 to 11,000 individuals remaining in the wild. Habitat loss and poaching have taken a heavy toll on their populations, and awareness campaigns such as this one are vital for ensuring their survival.
Here are a few fun facts to appreciate sloth bears even more:
- Conservation Status: Sloth bears are classified as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to habitat destruction and illegal wildlife trade.
- Dietary Habits: These bears are primarily insectivores, feeding on termites, ants, fruits, and honey, which play a crucial role in seed dispersal and ecosystem health.
- Unique Characteristics: With their shaggy fur, long claws, and ability to dig for honey and insects, sloth bears are perfectly adapted to their environment. They are also significant in Indian mythology, symbolising strength and wisdom.
A Call to Action
As we celebrate World Sloth Bear Day, we invite supporters to stand alongside Mithali and Maahi as they continue their recovery journey. These animals, native to the Indian Subcontinent, face increasing threats despite legal protection under the Indian Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.
Gavin Bruce, CEO of International Animal Rescue, stressed the importance of the issue: The threat of extinction looming over sloth bears highlights the critical need for their conservation. Co-existence with these magnificent creatures is crucial, and raising awareness about their plight is our shared responsibility.”
Looking Toward a Bright Future
With your support, we can ensure that sloth bears like Mithali and Maahi receive the care they need while also safeguarding the future of their species. Let’s come together and take meaningful action to protect these remarkable animals and preserve their natural habitats.
https://www.internationalanimalrescue.org/projects/indian-sloth-bear
