The bears, Bu, a former circus bear, and Tyapa, who had been kept at a petting zoo, spent years living in unsuitable conditions in Dagestan, Russia. Their arrival in Ireland on August 04 marked the successful conclusion of a five-year international rescue effort led by Killian McLaughlin, Founder and Director of Wild Ireland, involving more than 100 people across multiple countries.

Etihad Cargo played a key role in the mission, transporting the bears from Moscow to Dublin via its Abu Dhabi hub. Working closely with Abu Dhabi Airports and Velora, its teams coordinated specialist handling and transit arrangements at Zayed International Airport. Etihad Cargo’s expertise in transporting live animals is underpinned by its IATA CEIV Live Animals certification, reflecting its commitment to the highest standards of animal safety, welfare and care throughout every stage of the journey.

The bears have now moved into their new forest habitat at Wild Ireland in September, where they are showing encouraging signs of recovery and gradually adapting to their natural surroundings.

The rescue is being documented by Abu Dhabi-based Moondance Productions, with a documentary chronicling the five-year mission expected to be released in 2027.