A doleful overcast set over the Bannerghatta Bear Rescue Centre as our beloved Chitra bid us farewell. As the leaves rustle over her field, it seems as though they whisper warm memories of a sloth bear who had found comfort and solace under their shade for over 17 years.
Chitra was a young cub when she was subjected to inhumane conditions and unending toil as a ‘dancing’ sloth bear. The relentless awareness being spread by Wildlife SOS, along with the invaluable support of our partners like International Animal Rescue (IAR) has helped eradicate this cruel practice across India, leading her owner to realise the devastating nature of this trade. This realisation prompted him to entrust Chitra’s long-term care with Wildlife SOS. Her owner arrived at the rescue centre with a languid, eight-year-old sloth bear standing at the end of a two-foot-long rope. Weary of the unfamiliar place and people, her fatigued eyes were scanning every inch of the new space.
A new life for Chitra unfurled as she took her steps into the serene environment of the Bannerghatta Bear Rescue Centre (BBRC). The staff at BBRC were filled with a steadfast resolve to help her regain physical and psychological stability. As they witnessed Chitra’s distressing stereotypic behaviour— swaying her head aggressively for hours—careful measures were taken to ensure that she felt safe and secure. By putting their best foot forward, caregivers and veterinarians nursed the malnourished bear to restore her health. Chitra was suffering from gastrointestinal issues, for which supplements were prescribed to aid her digestion as well. With continuous care and attention, her overall condition began to significantly improve.
Chitra’s healing stemmed from her inner strength. Through her quiet demeanour, she showed us the importance of being patient and giving time to her to embrace the kindness she had never received before. Chitra slowly began to trust her caregiver, who had been pivotal in her transition from the streets to BBRC’s welcoming environment. Reflecting on the deep bond that they share, he says, “I feel grateful to have been a source of comfort for shy Chitra. She has left an indelible mark on my life and taught me the true essence of patience and companionship.”
Her companionship fondly extended to another rescued bear at BBRC, Odum. His playful spirit would draw calm and composed Chitra into various activities, bringing sparks of joy to her days. Even though they were complete opposites, the friendship they shared with each other was truly unique and a special one.
Among the fresh fruits she was always offered, Chitra loved to eat juicy watermelons! She would rush to the inviting enrichment balls hanging in her field to quickly lap up the honey and peanut butter they were slathered with. During winter months, Chitra would relish hearty meals of warm porridge, and then take a short stroll in her lush field before climbing onto her hammock for a relaxing nap under the sun.
As she stepped into the geriatric phase of her life, Chitra’s walking became slow, and she was carefully brought to an enclosure that was more suitable for her, allowing our team to keep a close watch on her needs. Her structural enrichments were modified to support her ageing limbs. The hammock was lowered to a height of 2 ft so that Chitra could easily access her favourite spot.
Routine examinations led to Chitra being diagnosed with a kidney disorder. As an elderly bear, she had been displaying erratic feeding behaviour as well. Chitra had been receiving active treatment for these. With dedicated care, her health was steadily improving and her appetite had become robust again. The sight of ageing bears often declines with age. Chitra, having crossed 24 years of age, began to show signs of visual impairment, and had been receiving oral supplements to prevent any further deterioration.
It was a heartbreaking turn of events when Chitra slipped away into eternity under the cover of the night. Her devoted caregiver was the first one to know of this when he called out her name early the next morning. While final goodbyes are always hard, everyone at Wildlife SOS is grateful to have witnessed the charm and wonder Chitra carried with her while at BBRC. Chitra’s life serves as a poignant reminder of how necessary it is to open a new chapter in the lives of those beings that have endured unfortunate episodes. As we bid adieu, we imagine that our lovable ursine has now progressed into a world where comforting hammocks and endless watermelons eagerly await her.
