Baloo the bear pictured in his cage

Because of supporters like you, Baloo's story just turned a page

We've paused our email-to-the Minister of Environment action and here's why: 

After years of work behind the scenes, we've finally achieved something remarkable direct contact with Baloo's owner. 

Our team traveled to Romania and, through careful negotiations, secured a conversation about Baloo’s future. In that hours-long meeting at the mountain ski resort, the owner indicated something that gave us real hope: 

They are open to cooperation. 

In addition to monthly monitoring, we are engaging another independent bear expert to assess Baloo's welfare, explore improvements and determine possible next steps for his future. 

This is a critical moment. We're pausing the Minister of Environment email campaign to focus on this direct conversation and tangible opportunity to help Baloo.  

But you can still help. We need your voice now more than ever. 

The most powerful thing you can do is show that people everywhere are watching, hoping and demanding better for Baloo.

Sign the petition for Baloo

Tell the Romanian government to uphold the order and have Baloo moved to Libearty Bear Sanctuary.

Baloo the bearPhoto: Jasper Doest
Baloo in his cage at a ski resort
Pictured above: Baloo in his small, cramped cage at a Romanian ski resort. Photo credits: Jasper Doest

Catch up on Baloo's story

Far from the Jungle Book: The real-life Baloo’s sad reality

Blog

Baloo the bear may share a name with Disney’s beloved character, but his life is nothing like the carefree jungle bear. Locked in captivity for over 25 years in Romania, Baloo’s story is a tragic reminder of the urgent need to protect wild animals.

Update on Baloo’s health

Blog

For over 20 years, Baloo the brown bear has been trapped in a cage at a Romanian ski resort, living in appalling conditions. We recently conducted a health check on Baloo to strengthen our lawsuit to move him to sanctuary.

Continuing our fight to free Baloo

News

Baloo has been locked in a cage at a Romanian ski resort for 23-years, endlessly being tormented by tourists. We have delivered more than 178,000 signatures to the Romanian government petitioning for his release to a sanctuary, but there is still work to be done.

Help save Baloo: a bear trapped in a cage for the last 23-years

News

Baloo the bear has been locked up in a cage at a ski resort in Romania under horrific conditions for 23 years. But together with our supporters around the world, we are working to rescue Baloo from this nightmare.