Amidst the Russian military invasion of Ukraine, tales of bravery and determination have emerged from the Ukrainian populace, especially from those who have remained in the war-torn nation to safeguard animals.
It’s truly inspiring to witness individuals caring for these animals despite the perilous conditions. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge the immense risks these individuals face, living under constant threat from bombs and gunfire unleashed by Russian forces.
Recently, a tragic event unfolded at a Ukrainian zoo, revealing the heartbreaking fate of two zoo workers who had chosen to stay behind to assist the animals.
Feldman Ecopark, located in Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city and a focal point of Russian attacks, has seen several staff members opt to stay and ensure the welfare of the animals, working tirelessly to evacuate them before it’s too late.
Tragically, the zoo received news that two staff members had been fatally shot. The zoo stated in a statement yesterday, “We have received confirmation that two of our employees who went missing in early March have died.”
These workers remained in Ukraine at the onset of the conflict to ensure the animals were fed. However, they vanished from the zoo on March 7, prompting a search by zoo personnel and local authorities. Sadly, they were found dead, victims of gunfire by Russian troops.
“Yesterday we received confirmation that their bodies had been found. Our guys were shot by the enemies, and their bodies were found in a barricaded back room,” shared the Ecopark on Facebook.
“We will cherish the blessed memory of these wonderful and courageous people. Sincere condolences to their family and friends. We believe that the inhuman people who committed this will surely be punished!”
This devastating event adds to the challenges faced by the zoo, already struggling to care for the animals amidst intense shelling.
In a recent update, the zoo revealed that the animal enclosures suffered severe damage from bombardment, necessitating urgent efforts to find new shelters, particularly for large predators like lions and tigers.
If alternative arrangements cannot be made, a grim decision to euthanize these animals looms, considering the risk of them escaping and endangering the local community.
“It is unimaginably painful to talk about this,” expressed a statement from park founder Alexander Feldman. “But the top priority now is the lives of people.”
Despite the challenging circumstances, the zoo persists in its quest to secure temporary accommodations for all the animals under its care.
An outpouring of support has followed their plea for assistance, as highlighted in a Facebook post from the zoo, stating, “The transport is already coming to us, the necessary cages are on their way, there are people coming who are not afraid to rescue animals from the bombed zone. Of course, everything is still very complicated, and the process is only accelerating.”
“Today, efforts to save our animals will not only continue but hopefully double and triple,” affirmed the Ecopark on Facebook. “Much depends on the situation in the Ecopark area, but we believe in the best and await positive news!”
Even as they strive to safeguard the animals, these brave individuals face constant danger. In a recent update, the park mentioned being targeted by Russian troops even during the evacuation of wolves.
“A drone flying over the Ecopark territory means danger. This is often followed by shelling. Russian troops are constantly monitoring the area,” the park detailed. “It seems they should understand that the evacuation of wolves is a purely peaceful process. But our rescuers have learned on several occasions that their logic… is totally different.”
Hats off to these courageous individuals who sacrificed their lives to protect animals. Our thoughts are with all the heroes in Ukraine, hoping for their safety.
Share this story to honor these animal caretakers who tragically lost their lives in this conflict. ??❤️
