
We are saddened to announce that the province of Manitoba has confirmed that two bear cubs (including Makoon) being cared for by the Assiniboine Park Zoo have been released into the wild.
The Winnipeg Humane Society has learned from bear biology experts that this early release presents as low as 5% chance of survival.
“The province of Manitoba has not acted in the best interests of the bear cub Makoon" said Bill McDonald, WHS CEO.
Bear expert, Dr. John Beecham, Ph.D advises the best opportunity for releasing cubs would have been when they are large enough and old enough to defend themselves from predators. This best age is 17-18 months of age.
“At 5 months of age, Makoon would only be 30 lbs. A release at this age means death by starvation or being killed by a predator,” stated McDonald.
The Winnipeg Humane Society was consulting with WHS legal counsel to present an application to court to stop the release of Makoon when the province confirmed they had released two bear cubs.