Bosnian Man’s Unlikely Bond: Rescued Bear Cub Becomes Lifelong Companion
Discover the heartwarming story of Petar Tubic, a Bosnian man who rescued an abandoned bear cub and formed an inseparable, lifelong bond on Mount Ozren.
POLICY WIRE — Doboj, Bosnia-Herzegovina — A remarkable friendship has blossomed on the slopes of Mount Ozren, where a local man and a rescued bear have become inseparable companions. Petar Tubic first encountered Masa in 2019, discovering the abandoned cub alone in the wilderness and bringing her home to ensure her survival.
When Tubic found the cub, she weighed only 2 kilograms, or 4.4 pounds, and required intensive care to recover. Over the years, the bond between the two deepened, with Masa now weighing approximately 150 kilograms, or 330 pounds. Despite her massive size, the bear still frequently attempts to climb into Tubic’s lap, a habit she maintained since her infancy.
Tubic, who also cares for a second female bear named Ljubica along with wolves, deer, and raccoons, acknowledges the inherent risks of living with such powerful animals. He noted that a single swipe of a paw could easily cause injury, yet he remains dedicated to their well-being. While he has considered returning them to the wild, he fears they are too accustomed to human interaction to survive independently.
The property has since evolved into a local attraction, allowing visitors to witness the unique connection between the family and their rescued animals. Tubic, an electrician who enjoys hiking and paragliding, views his time with the bears as a grounding experience that offers a genuine connection to the natural world.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
