Asiatic black bear explores lush green grass and foliage in a natural sanctuary environment.

Armstrong

From bile farm survivor to sanctuary star

For more than 20 years, Armstrong endured unimaginable cruelty on a bear bile farm in Phung Thuong, Vietnam. He was likely snatched from his mother in the wild as a cub. Alongside Buzz, the only other bear left on the farm, Armstrong spent decades in a barren metal cage – without sunlight or grass under his paws.

In October 2023, their world changed forever. Armstrong and Buzz became the first residents of Animals Asia’s new bear sanctuary in Bach Ma National Park.

A rescue like no other

The rescue team, including our founder, Jill Robinson, made the 725-kilometre journey to bring Armstrong and Buzz home. After some gentle coaxing with sweet treats, Armstrong walked into his transport cage – his first step toward freedom. Buzz followed soon after.

On arrival, Armstrong was alert and curious. During his quarantine, he played with banana leaves and lapped up his fruit smoothies. Despite all he’d been through, his spirit shone brightly.

Asian black bear stands inside a metal cage, looking out through the bars in low light.
Four staff members in black shirts move a red metal transport cage using a trolley inside a rescue facility.
Asian black bear drinks liquid from a tube through the bars of a red metal cage, with a hand holding a green cup.
Two Asian black bears interact inside a concrete enclosure, one sitting on an orange bed while the other stands beside.

First steps into a new life

Just weeks after arriving, Armstrong was moved into his very own den. For the first time in over two decades, he had space to stretch, climb and play.

His moment of transformation came in November 2023, when Armstrong stepped outside. He paused, nose twitching, then ventured out, sniffing the air and gently placing one paw in front of the other. Though he was unsure about the grass at first, he soon grew bolder, returning day after day to investigate this new green world.

Building strength and trust

Armstrong quickly showed us what a curious and confident bear he is. He delighted in puzzle feeders, leafy vines and crunchy vegetables. These not only kept him entertained but helped clean his teeth and rebuild his muscles after years of confinement.

His health check revealed high blood pressure and some dental issues, but nothing could dampen his spirit. His treatment plan includes daily medication hidden in syrup and bananas – two of his favourite treats.

Asian black bear investigates a colorful red gift box in a grassy enclosure at a rescue center.
Asian black bear stands beside an orange woven hammock in a grassy enclosure, facing the camera.
Asian black bear chews on leafy green branches while standing on logs in a grassy outdoor enclosure.
Asian black bear stands on grass near a log in an outdoor enclosure, looking toward the camera.

Friends reunited

After over 20 years in neighbouring cages, Armstrong and Buzz were finally able to meet. In a moment that moved the whole team to tears, they sniffed, cuddled, and played gently together. It was the beginning of a beautiful bond.

They now share play sessions both indoors and outdoors, clucking affectionately at each other and exploring their new world side by side.

The future is bright

Today, Armstrong continues to grow in confidence. He explores further into his enclosure, forages for treats, and gazes up at the sky.

Thanks to compassionate supporters around the world, Armstrong has finally found peace, safety and love. His journey from a cage to the open skies and forests of Bach Ma is a testament to the power of rescue, recovery and resilience.