Black bear rescued from abandoned Ukraine zoo dies after suffering with PTSD, Five Sisters Zoo confirms

A bear that was rescued from an abandoned zoo in Ukraine and brought to West Lothian has died.

Five Sisters Zoo confirmed that the 12-year-old Asiatic Black Bear, named Yampil, passed away following an anaesthetic procedure.

Yampil was one of seven surviving animals rescued from a Ukraine zoo and brought to Five Sisters Zoo in West Calder.

The zoo said that despite the bear being “comfortable and happy” he suffered from complicated health problems such as dental problems or PTSD.

Five Sisters Zoo confirmed that the 12-year-old Asiatic Black Bear, named Yampil, passed away. Supplied

Yampil was put under anaesthetic for further treatment for his “worrying” health problems but did not recover.

Romain Pizzi, a specialist vet at Five Sisters Zoo, said: “We are utterly devastated to confirm that Yampil, our 12-year-old Asiatic Black Bear, has passed away following an anaesthetic procedure.

“Yampil was one of seven surviving animals rescued from an abandoned zoo in Ukraine, a lesser-known tragedy of human conflict.

“Despite being comfortable and happy here, Yampil, like many animals rescued from traumatic circumstances, can suffer from complicated health problems such as dental problems or PTSD.

Yampil was one of seven surviving animals rescued from a Ukraine zoo. Supplied

“Yampil was anaesthetised for further treatment for his health problems which were worrying the team. Sadly, anaesthetising animals always carries risks, and Yampil did not recover from the procedure.

“We are all deeply affected by the loss of our beloved Yampil.

“We appreciate this will be a truly sad day for all the incredible people who helped make his rescue possible.

“While the zoo will remain open as usual, we kindly request respect and privacy for our owners and staff during this difficult time.”