Sloth Bear from Zlín Zoo Transferred to Scotland

This transfer highlights the excellent care and breeding conditions at Zlín Zoo and strengthens the European conservation program for this rare species. The 2,300 km journey took two days and went smoothly. Upon arrival, Disambar quickly adapted to his new environment and is doing well, according to Edinburgh Zoo.

Disambar was born in 2022 at Zlín Zoo to parents Saraswathi and Druva, originally from Mysore Zoo in India. Sloth bears are dietary specialists and are kept in only seven European zoos — in the Czech Republic, exclusively at Zlín Zoo. We're the only European zoo to have successfully bred two cubs.

Native to South Asia, sloth bears are classified as vulnerable by the IUCN. Their numbers are declining due to habitat loss and poaching. Known for their long snouts and shaggy coats, they feed mainly on termites, ants, and fruit, despite weighing over 100 kg.