Mark spent over 20 years of his life as a restaurant bear. He was used to attract customers, living in a tiny rusty cage where he only felt the cold concrete floor. He was deprived of all the natural behaviour of a bear and never had the opportunity to forage, hibernate, or even smell other bears.

But on the 7^th of December 2022, FOUR PAWS was able to rescue Mark and change the life of Albania's last restaurant bear forever. After a long journey through 7 countries, Mark arrived safely on December 9^th at his new forever home, BEAR SANCTUARY Arbesach.

But after such a long time living in captivity, it was difficult for Mark to settle into his new life. And the poor living conditions and malnutrition from his life in captivity has caused life-long health problems. But slowly Mark is improving! And with the return of winter in mid-January, Mark retreated into his den – to hibernate for the first time in his life.

At the end of February, Mark slowly became more active again. For the first time since his rescue, he stood in his den sniffing around. A big step forward! The den is still Mark’s favourite hideout and he hasn’t ventured far from it yet. It is his safe, warm space, where he can settle into his new surroundings, relax and eat all his favorite foods.

Watch for a true winter miracle! ❄️