KUCHING, April 17 — An ill sun bear that was discovered near Sibu earlier this month is showing signs of recovery at the Matang Wildlife Centre.
According to The Star Online, the bear is currently under the care of volunteer veterinarian Dr Silje Robertsen, who is from Norway.
“As of today, the animal is alert, able to climb and to eat normally. The sun bear is still kept in quarantine, as she is still weak and suffering from hook worms, mite infestation and moderate anaemia,” said the report, quoting Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC).
According to the SFC, the bear had been ill for a prolonged period of time and they were unsure if the bear would be able to fully recover.
“In the meantime, her treatment will continue based on a carbohydrate-rich diet with food supplements, antibiotics and protein. She will remain quarantined to minimise external disturbances,” SFC was quoted as saying by the online news portal.
Matang Wildlife Centre’s manager Siali Aban said since news of the sun bear went viral, there had been many calls from visitors wanting to see it.
Photos and videos of the sun bear has gone viral on the Internet, with many commenting on its Gollum-like appearance.
The sun bear was first spotted in January by Indonesian plantation workers, who were shocked by its rare hairless appearance. It was later caught by workers at a palm oil estate in Meradong district on April 2 and handed over to SFC.
