January 17th is "Black Bear Protection Day": Exploring the Survival Journey of Asian Black Bears

Every year on January 17th, we celebrate "Black Bear Protection Day," a crucial moment for us to focus on the well-being of black bears. On this day in 2018, a volunteer group from the China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation successfully rescued a surviving black bear cub from poachers in Lesser Khingan Mountains, Heilongjiang province. This incident shed light on the issue of illegal hunting in the northeastern region of the Lesser Khingan Mountains, garnering widespread attention from society and extensive media coverage. There were three bears involved—a mother and her two cubs—only one cub survived and was later sent to the Lesser Khingan Mountains Wildlife Rescue and Breeding Center. Within a few days, this news story gained hundreds of thousands of views, with numerous websites and the public sharing, commenting, and offering support.

The Asian black bear (Ursus thibetanus), also known as the moon bear, dog bear, or Asiatic black bear, boasts distinctive white crescent-shaped markings on its chest and inhabits the forests of northeastern China. As apex predators, they play a critical role in maintaining the health of natural ecosystems. Being at the top of the food chain, they regulate the populations of other prey species, thus influencing the overall balance of the ecosystem. By keeping prey populations in check, black bears help prevent overbreeding in certain species and promote stability in other wildlife populations. Maintaining this ecological balance is vital for preserving biodiversity and ecosystem functionality, making their presence in the wild a sign of ecosystem health.

However, this poaching incident is just one of the many survival challenges that Asian black bears face. Traditional habitat destruction poses a significant threat to the wild populations of Asian black bears. Deforestation, urban expansion, and agricultural activities have led to a continuous reduction in their natural habitats, forcing them into contact with human society and increasing the risk of human-wildlife conflicts. Additionally, illegal hunting and the illicit trade of wildlife products, such as bear skins, have caused a rapid decline in the black bear population. Traditional medicine practices involving the use of bear bile also negatively impact these bears and further increase their survival uncertainties.

Picture: On September 8, 2023, the CBCGDF Black Bear Protection Team held a black bear conservation science education and awareness event near the Tieli Railway Station. Source: CBCGDF Media

The surviving cub was only one year old and was sent to a local wildlife rescue center by the local police. The subsequent developments are unclear. Source: Report by BeijingNews

Therefore, urgent conservation measures and habitat restoration plans are needed to ensure the survival and reproduction of Asian black bears. Promoting public awareness is crucial in this effort. To commemorate this important day and inspire more people to engage, support, and unite in biodiversity conservation, the CBCGDF, in consultation with volunteers, has designated January 17th as "Black Bear Protection Day." This initiative aims to raise awareness about black bear conservation, elevate public consciousness, and motivate individuals to take active steps in contributing to the protection of the future of Asian black bears. After all, these precious wild animals are an integral part of "Earth for All."

Reporter:Littlejane
Checked by:YJ  
Contact: v10@cbcgdf.org; +8617319454776

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