A Sanctuary for India’s Asiatic Black Bears at the CBRC in Pakke Tiger Reserve
Nestled in the lush, verdant landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh, the Centre for Bear Rehabilitation and Conservation (CBRC) in the Pakke Tiger Reserve stands as a testament to India’s growing commitment to wildlife conservation and ecological balance. The centre, located in the heart of one of the most biodiverse regions of the country, offers a crucial lifeline to the often-overlooked species of bears that call the forests of the Eastern Himalayas home.
Pakke Tiger Reserve: A Biodiversity Hotspot
Pakke Tiger Reserve, also known as Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary, is a vital biodiversity hotspot in the northeastern part of India. Spanning an area of approximately 861 square kilometers, this protected area harbors a rich variety of flora and fauna, including several species of endangered animals like tigers, elephants, and the sun bear. The reserve’s dense forests, abundant water sources, and varied topography create an ideal habitat for these species, making it an indispensable conservation priority for both national and global wildlife conservation efforts.
Within this rich landscape the Centre for Bear Rehabilitation and Conservation (CBRC), stands as a pioneering effort in the rehabilitation and conservation of the Asiatic black bear in India. Established in 2002, CBRC is the country’s first specialized rehabilitation facility for Asiatic black bears and is a joint initiative of the Department of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, GoAP, the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), and the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), with support from the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF).
CBRC’s Role in Asiatic Black Bear Conservation
The Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus), native to the Himalayas, is an endangered species and is listed in Schedule I of India’s Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Also known as the moon bear due to its characteristic crescent-shaped white chest mark, these bears play a crucial ecological role as omnivores, controlling insect populations, dispersing seeds, and maintaining the overall balance of their ecosystem.
Despite its ecological importance, the bear faces severe threats from poaching, and habitat destruction, which have led to a significant decline in their population. In Arunachal Pradesh, the bear is often hunted for its meat, and young cubs are frequently orphaned due to illegal hunting activities.
The CBRC was established to address these threats and provide a second chance to orphaned or injured bears. The centre serves as a safe haven for these vulnerable cubs, where they are nurtured and cared for in a protected environment, and gradually reintroduced into their natural habitat once they are strong and independent enough to survive on their own.
The Rehabilitation Process: Rescue, Recovery, and Release
The Centre for Bear Rehabilitation and Conservation provides a sanctuary for cubs confiscated from hunters or surrendered by locals who can no longer care for them. The centre offers them veterinary care, shelter, and food, while a dedicated team, including field biologists, veterinarians, and animal keepers, ensures the cubs’ well-being.
Once stabilized, the cubs begin the process of rehabilitation. As they gradually wean off milk, the cubs are relocated to a carefully selected forest rehabilitation site where they undergo an assisted release process. The selection of these sites is based on rigorous scientific criteria, considering factors like topography, vegetation, food availability, and potential predators, to ensure the cubs have the best chance of survival in the wild.
Assisted Release and Acclimatization
At the rehabilitation site, cubs are given the opportunity to acclimatize to their natural environment through daily walks led by a foster parent, an animal keeper who guides them through the forest. These walks allow the cubs to explore their natural habitat, forage for food, and develop essential survival skills, such as climbing and foraging. The cubs also learn to identify their natural food sources, honing their instincts and abilities for independent living.
During this period of acclimatization, the cubs are closely monitored. They gradually become more independent, showing a reluctance to return to their campsite at night, a key sign that they are ready to be released into the wild. Once the team is confident in the cubs’ ability to survive independently, they are released, and the radio collars are used to track their progress for up to six to eight months.
Monitoring and Long-Term Success
The CBRC’s approach to post-release monitoring is one of the key components of its success. The cubs’ movements are tracked using the radio collars, providing vital data on their survival, health, and integration into the wild. Over time, the radio collars fall off, signifying the cubs’ full transition to independent life in their natural habitat.
This meticulous process has contributed to the successful rehabilitation and release of many Asiatic black bears into the forests of Pakke Tiger Reserve, ensuring the long-term survival of the species in the region. To date, CBRC has rehabilitated and released over 60 bear cubs, a testament to the centre’s dedication and success in bear conservation.
Support for Other Species: Small Indian Civet and Leopard Cats
In addition to Asiatic black bears, the CBRC also works to rehabilitate other endangered species, such as the small Indian civet and the leopard cat. These species often face similar threats, including poaching and habitat loss. The centre’s efforts extend to providing sanctuary and care for these animals, offering them the necessary recovery and rehabilitation to return to their natural habitats whenever possible.
A Lifeline for Injured or Permanent Residents
Not all bears brought to the CBRC are fit for release back into the wild. Some arrive with severe injuries or psychological trauma that prevent them from surviving in their natural habitat. For these bears, the CBRC provides lifetime care in spacious, naturalistic enclosures designed to mimic the wild, allowing them to roam, forage, climb, and engage in behaviors essential for their well-being. The decision to retain a bear for long-term care involves careful veterinary evaluation, behavioral assessments, and a deep understanding of each bear’s unique needs, ensuring they live as naturally as possible despite being unable to return to the wild.
Overcoming Challenges in Bear Conservation
While the CBRC has achieved significant success, challenges in bear conservation persist. Poaching, particularly for bear bile, remains a threat, as does human-wildlife conflict, which often arises when bears search for food in agricultural fields or settlements. Habitat loss due to deforestation and human encroachment further exacerbates these issues.
The CBRC continues to address these challenges head-on by working with local authorities, conservation organizations, and the community to reduce threats to bear populations and protect their habitats. The ongoing work at CBRC is critical not only for the rehabilitation of individual bears but also for the broader goal of conserving this species in Arunachal Pradesh and beyond.
Conclusion
The Centre for Bear Rehabilitation and Conservation at Pakke Tiger Reserve plays a pivotal role in the conservation of the Asiatic black bear. By providing a safe haven for orphaned cubs and guiding them through a careful rehabilitation process, the CBRC is ensuring the long-term survival of this endangered species. The centre’s success in releasing rehabilitated bears back into the wild is a testament to its commitment and innovative approach to conservation. As the CBRC continues its vital work, it serves as a powerful example of how collaborative conservation efforts can make a tangible difference.
For those who wish to support this incredible initiative, there are various ways to get involved – whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness about the importance of bear conservation in Arunachal Pradesh. By working together, we can ensure that future generations of Asiatic black bears continue to thrive in the wild, contributing to the rich biodiversity of the Eastern Himalayas.
