VietNamNet Bridge – The Animals Asia Foundation (AAF) has just announced that to protect two rare bear species, it will organize an event “Ride for the Bears” on January 26.

Tibetan bear in need of protection. (Source: Internet)

The two rare bear species, indigenous to Vietnam, are the Tibetan bear (Ursus thibetanus) and Malayan bear (Helarctos malayanus) and are in danger of disappearing from the wild due to wildlife trafficking and the bear gall industry. Currently, there are less than 100 bears remaining in the wild.

This activity also aims to support the Vietnam Bear Rescue Centre, which has been directed to operate and continue building.

"Through the event 'Ride for the bears', we hope to get the attention and raise the awareness of the community, especially the youth, for nature conservation and wildlife protection," a representative of the AAF said.

“In addition, this activity also supports the goal to completely end activities of raising bears to cruelly harvest gall, as well as end the bear gall trade in Vietnam."

Accordingly, the Ride for the Bears will officially depart at 6am from Nghia Do Park, Cau Giay district, Hanoi and proceed to the Vietnam Bear Rescue Centre in Tam Dao district, Vinh Phuc province.

Organizers estimate that more than 70 individuals will participate in this 124-kilometer program, which is open to all with no limitations on age, gender or nationality for participants.

Source: CPV