In the heart of Ukraine, two sister bears, Masha and Lora, endured years of hardship, forced to perform for a circus in conditions far from their natural habitat. Confined to tiny, filthy cages that restricted their every move, they lived a life of solitude, able to sense each other’s presence but tragically separated by barriers that prevented any form of interaction.

The turning point for Masha and Lora came in 2019, thanks to the compassionate efforts of SOS Zoo and Bear Rescue alongside The Lawrence Anthony Earth Organisation (LAEO). Their rescue marked the end of their suffering and the beginning of a new chapter.

Now, Masha and Lora have found solace and freedom at the Libearty Bear Sanctuary in Romania, a haven managed by The Millions of Friends Association (AMP) and backed by World Animal Protection. This sanctuary offers them 69 acres of lush, open land—a stark contrast to their previous confinement. Here, they have access to swimming pools and the company of other bears, allowing them to interact and live as they were meant to: freely and joyfully.

This remarkable story of resilience and transformation highlights the importance of wildlife protection and the difference that compassion and action can make in the lives of animals.