In an unexpected twist, Latvia is preparing to conduct a double auction for two bears, sparking curiosity and concern among animal lovers. While the government has long championed the advantages of privatizing public assets, this particular instance of privatization is raising eyebrows, as reported by Latvian Radio.
The upcoming auction will see two bears sold in Demene parish, located in the Augšdaugava municipality. This unusual sale is being organized by the Nature Conservation Authority (DAP), which describes these bears as "state movable property"—a term that takes on a rather unique meaning in this context.
Complicating matters, the mini-zoo known as "Raptors Park," where the bears have been nurtured and cared for, has circulated a letter on social media asking for financial donations to help cover the bears' upkeep. The zoo's owners are hopeful that they can retain the bears in their care.
These two brown bears (Ursus arctos), one male and one female, found their way to "Raptors Park" several years ago under troubling circumstances. According to Aleksandrs Kalačovs, the owner of the zoo, someone abandoned the bears there. "A criminal case was started but was eventually closed without any resolution. As a result, these bears became state property; it’s understood that anything originating from nature belongs to the state. They’ve been with us for three years now, and we’ve been covering all their costs despite them being state property. We must report to the state regularly about these bears, even though we have no ownership rights. Now, the state has opted to auction them off," explained Kalačovs.
As confirmed by Gita Strode, Director of the Nature Conservation Department within the National Park Service, the situation is indeed serious. She reiterated that both bears are considered state property, having been seized during a criminal investigation that ultimately yielded no results. "Due to the conclusion of this investigation, these animals ended up here. We lack a dedicated animal shelter for such situations, and the Riga Zoo cannot always accommodate every need. Under current regulations, these bears, which have now grown larger, must be auctioned as state assets; we cannot simply give them away," she stated.
Kalačovs was also asked to chip and sterilize both bears at his own cost, which he declined, expressing dissatisfaction with the state's decision. Strode noted, "While these animals remain under state ownership, the keeper provides all necessary care, yet he opposed this decision, prompting an appeal."
Caring for just one bear requires a substantial amount of resources: approximately 10 kilograms of apples, 5 kilograms of specialized food, 7 kilograms of meat, along with vitamins according to seasonal needs. Additionally, there are significant requirements for proper housing for the bears.
As Kalačovs pointed out, "Bears are not aware of auctions, laws, or formalities. They know only where they are fed and feel safe." With aspirations to purchase the bears, the zoo is actively seeking support from the community. Although the DAP is not against this initiative, they emphasize that the auction process must be adhered to.
"If the owner of the zoo bids on and wins the bears, he will then treat them as his private property, allowing him to act in his own interests. However, the law mandates that certain regulations must still be followed in keeping these animals, including maintaining a registered facility, which he already has," Strode clarified.
Should there be no bidders for the bears, dire consequences may ensue. Strode warned, "In such a scenario, we might have to make the most difficult decisions—possibly euthanizing the bears if alternative options cannot be found. Unfortunately, we’re left with few choices."
Thus, on December 12th, the DAP announced the auction on its portal, setting the starting bid at 1,700 euros, with increases of 50 euros for each subsequent bid. Interested bidders can submit applications until December 22, with the auction concluding on January 5. It’s crucial to remember: adopting a bear is a lifelong commitment, far beyond a festive whim.
