Asiatic Black Bear “Nam Wan” Transferred to Wildlife Rescue Centre for Rehabilitation

Vientiane Capital, 13 August 2026 — Relevant authorities of Lao PDR, in cooperation with the Free the Bears wildlife rescue team, completed the handover of a female Asiatic black bear named “Nam Wan” to the Free the Bears Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Centre in Luang Prabang for professional care and rehabilitation.

The handover took place at Dongphonhe Village, Hadxayfong District, Vientiane Capital. Nam Wan, a female Asiatic black bear weighing approximately 100 kilograms, is classified as a protected wildlife species under List I of the national wildlife protection framework.

Prior to the handover, the bear had been kept by Ms. Jilathip Chanthapanya, who informed the authorities that the animal had originally been encountered after being offered for sale by local people in Luang Namtha Province.

With the intention of contributing to the protection of prohibited and threatened wildlife, Ms. Jilathip subsequently notified the competent authorities and voluntarily handed over the bear for transfer to the wildlife rescue centre.

The transfer will allow Nam Wan to receive appropriate veterinary care, rehabilitation and long-term professional management. Subject to assessment of health, behaviour and suitability, the possibility of eventual release into an appropriate natural habitat may be considered in accordance with relevant technical requirements and legal procedures.

The handover was coordinated by the Aquatic and Wildlife Inspection Division of the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Inspection, the Natural Resources and Environmental Inspection Unit of Vientiane Capital, and the wildlife rescue team of Free the Bears.

The transfer was conducted in accordance with relevant national legislation on wildlife protection and management. A preliminary health assessment found Nam Wan to be in good physical condition, allowing the animal to be safely transferred to the rescue centre for further examination, care and rehabilitation.

The case also highlights the importance of cooperation between government authorities, wildlife rescue organizations and members of the public in protecting threatened wildlife. Public reporting and voluntary cooperation with competent authorities can contribute to preventing illegal possession, trade and exploitation of protected wildlife.

Authorities emphasized the need to continue strengthening public awareness of national wildlife legislation and encouraged members of the public not to hunt, trade, purchase, transport or illegally possess prohibited wildlife and wildlife products. Where protected wildlife or suspected illegal wildlife activities are encountered, information should be reported to the competent authorities for appropriate action.

The successful transfer of Nam Wan represents another practical contribution to wildlife protection in Lao PDR and demonstrates the importance of coordinated action among government authorities, conservation organizations and local communities in ensuring that rescued wildlife receives appropriate care and management.

The case also reinforces wider efforts of Lao PDR to strengthen wildlife conservation, prevent illegal wildlife trade and promote responsible public participation in the protection of national biodiversity.

News and photos: Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Inspection
Published by: Information Technology and Information Division, Office of the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment