Kosovo Zoo Sets Up Heaters to Warm up Rescue Animals

In the Kosovan capital, Pristina, Bear Sanctuary Prishtina has transformed into a winter wonderland for its diverse residents, including a lion named Gjon and 20 brown bears. As the first snowfall blanketed the sanctuary, visitors were treated to the heartwarming sight of Gjon, a lion rescued from a local restaurant, frolicking in the snow.

The sanctuary, managed by the non-profit organization Four Paws International, is home to bears that share a common tale with Gjon—they were removed from their natural habitat as cubs and confined to local restaurants. Despite the challenges, the dedicated workers at the sanctuary strive to create a comfortable environment for these animals, especially during the chilly winter months.

Albana Hoti, the head of animal and facilities management at the sanctuary, emphasized the effort to ensure the well-being of Gjon, stating, “We know that this is not their perfect environment to survive, but we have created a nice place for the winter, and we have installed a heater that helps him a lot because big cats need much warmer temperatures.”

Gjon’s story is one of rescue and transition, having been liberated from a life confined in a local restaurant to amuse patrons. Plans are in motion to transport Gjon to South Africa once legal hurdles are overcome, where he will find a more suitable habitat.

The bears at the sanctuary share a similar history, having been rescued from local restaurants where they were kept in captivity after being taken from their natural forests. Hoti explained that some of the bears, having never experienced life in the wild, do not enter full hibernation. Instead, they follow a unique pattern, hibernating briefly and then venturing out again. With 16 of the sanctuary’s bears opting for full hibernation, the team at Bear Sanctuary Prishtina continues to work tirelessly to provide a haven for these wonderful creatures.

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