Asiatic black bear standing in a pond with tongue out, surrounded by reflections of trees and greenery in an outdoor enclosure.

Tatzi

The oldest surviving bile bear

Tatzi’s journey to sanctuary began in the mid-1990s, after he’d spent over a decade confined in a tiny, rusting cage on a bile farm.

The toll it took on his body and spirit was immense. He was one of nine bears rescued from an ex-bile farm in Panyu, southern China – his body showing signs of long-term neglect, his spirit dimmed by incarceration.

A legacy of survival

In 2009, Tatzi was transferred to Animals Asia’s sanctuary where our facilities could better support his ageing body. Today, at over 36 years old, he’s believed to be the oldest living moon bear in the world – and almost certainly the oldest survivor of bear farming. His gentle spirit, his kind eyes, and his unmistakable lolling tongue have made him one of our most iconic and beloved bears.

Asiatic black bear lying in a cramped metal cage in a dimly lit room, showing signs of distress.
Woman in a mask gently interacting with an Asiatic black bear inside a metal cage at an animal care facility.
Caregivers interacting with an Asiatic black bear through a feeding tube attached to a metal cage.
Asiatic black bear with tongue out, standing among dry grass and plants in an outdoor enclosure.

Tatzi’s health journey

Now in his twilight years, Tatzi lives with many age-related conditions. He has arthritis in his spine, elbows and knees, making movement more challenging. He’s hypertensive and takes daily heart medication to support his circulation. Cataracts cloud his vision, and he has no teeth left – but his favourite treats are soft, and he eats well.

Tatzi also has skin issues, with patches of hair loss around his neck, likely linked to long-term changes in his body from years in captivity. He suffers from mild neurological tremors in his head and tongue – though his tongue constantly lolling out is pain-free and part of his unique charm. Routine tests have revealed kidney problems that our veterinary team carefully monitor and manage.

Despite all this, Tatzi’s resilience is astonishing. His condition is stable, and his spirit shines through every day.

The golden years

Tatzi’s longevity speaks of his endurance, his quality care, his right to have choices and the special bond he has with his carers. Despite spending over 10 years on a bile farm, his life today is peaceful, filled with sunshine, soft bedding and the gentle breeze brushing through his fur. He loves his dips in the pool, slow foraging walks, and soaking up the sun with his belly facing the sky.

He’s part of our pioneering Cooperative Care program, having learned to offer his arm for health checks, blood draws and to have his claws trimmed – no stress, just trust. Watching this gentle old bear calmly participate in his own care is something we never tire of seeing.

Tatzi’s caregivers go above and beyond to keep him comfortable. They tailor his medications, diet, and routines to match his changing needs, ensuring he never feels discomfort or fear again.

Asiatic black bear relaxing in a metal tub outdoors, with its long tongue sticking out playfully.
Close-up of an Asiatic black bear with a distinctive creamy chest patch, staring forward in a green outdoor setting.
Asiatic black bear with a creamy chest patch, holding food in its mouth while interacting with a tree in its enclosure.
Asiatic black bear lounging in a metal tub outdoors, with its head out and tongue extended, surrounded by greenery.

A gentle soul

Tatzi is loved by everyone who meets him. His carers describe him as the gentlest soul imaginable – patient, affectionate and wise. 

Though he’s slower these days, Tatzi still rolls around in the grass, plays gently with his companions, and enjoys the calm rhythm of sanctuary life.

He has known pain, loss and confinement. But now, surrounded by love, he’s found his peace.