🐻Bornean Sun Bears: My Immersive Internship in Wildlife Conservation🐻 by Effa Denis (UNIMAS Internship Student 2024)

🐻Bornean Sun Bears: My Immersive Internship in Wildlife Conservation🐻

Text and photos by Effa Denis (UNIMAS Internship Student 2024)

Interning at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) was a transformative experience that ignited my passion for wildlife conservation. 

I worked hands-on with the Bear Care Unit, handling tasks like feeding, medical care, cage cleaning, and faecal checks. Feeding wasn’t just about food, it recreated the bears' natural foraging instincts, while special meals catered to those like Amaco, an older bear. Cage cleaning and deep sanitations ensured a safe, healthy space. 

In the kitchen, I prepared food and cleverly delivered supplements, like hiding them in bananas. I also inspected electric fences to prevent escapes and monitored the bears' health. Beyond daily care, I helped design enrichment activities to keep the bears curious and active. 

With the education team, I raised awareness about sun bear conservation. Sessions with Dr. Wong, BSBCC’s inspiring CEO, further deepened my commitment to ethical animal care. 

None of this would have been possible without the incredible bear care staff. They taught me not only technical skills but also the importance of patience and understanding in animal care. 

This internship was life-changing, and I recommend it to anyone passionate about wildlife. I only wish it had lasted longer.