A public campaign is asking the Ministry of Environment of Romania to intervene for the rescue of Baloo the bear, who has been captive for 25 years in Straja, and to relocate him to a sanctuary.

The public campaign launched by the organization World Animal Protection calls for the intervention of the Ministry of Environment, Waters and Forests to save the brown bear Baloo, who has lived in private captivity at the Straja resort, Hunedoara County, for 25 years. The petition demands the urgent relocation of the bear to a specialized sanctuary, where he can benefit from conditions suitable for his biological needs. Baloo suffers daily, being fed corn flakes and lemonade, and visitors mistreat him. Although since 2005 the keeping of bears by private individuals has been prohibited in Romania, the owner of the resort obtained an exception. The sanctuary in Zărnești is ready to receive Baloo, but the legal process for relocation is progressing slowly. The organization emphasizes that, contrary to opinions, Baloo is not too old to be moved, and his long-term welfare must be a priority.