Cholita, the ex-circus bear will not be coming to Colorado.
Due to age and poor health, Animal Defenders International announced that Cholita, a rare Andean or Spectacled bear, will remain in her native Peru for the rest of her life.
According to ADI’s website:
“Cholita is believed to be at the top end of the normal lifespan for a Spectacled bear and she has had a hard life. With her age and past injuries, she is frail in her movements and prone to stress; her breathing is often laboured. The veterinarians have advised against sedation due to her advanced age, breathing issues and the unknown status of her internal organs; the risk is too great."
ADI said they will be building Cholita a home, guaranteeing both shelter and lifetime care. "We are committed to building Cholita a fabulous habitat where she can live alongside other rescued Spectacled bears in her native climate," ADI stated on their website.
The animal rescue group also disclosed they are in discussions around the rescue of another female Spectacled bear.
Cholita's intended home in Colorado, The Wild Animal Sanctuary, expressed their regret that she wouldn't be joining them.
"The Wild Animal Sanctuary was prepared to care for Cholita, and has spent a decent amount of money constructing her future habitat," said Jason Maxey, the spokesman for the sanctuary. "That being said, the Sanctuary only wants what’s best for Cholita."
The 33 lions rescued from Peruvian and Columbian circuses and roadside attractions that were due to travel with Cholita will still be arriving later in the summer of 2015 to the Wild Animal Sanctuary where the lions will have a permanent home.
The 720-acre sanctuary in Keenesberg, Colorado has been home to captive exotic and endangered large carnivores since 1980.
Editor's Note: This story has been updated with comment from The Wild Animal Sanctuary.
