The story of an elderly Slovenian 'restaurant bear' will take a happy turn after over three decades in captivity. At the impressive age of 34, Felix is set to embark on a new chapter at BEAR SANCTUARY Arbesbach in Austria, where he will be able to live out the rest of his life in a natural and species-appropriate environment.

Born in 1991, Felix has spent his life in a small concrete enclosure next to a busy road, where he served as an attraction for restaurant guests. In April 2025, a team from FOUR PAWS visited Felix and determined that he is fit for transport to a more suitable home. 

Since 2004, it has been illegal for private individuals in Slovenia to keep bears taken from the wild, but with exceptions for those who obtained bears before the law was enacted and could not release them. In 2022 FOUR PAWS assessed the living conditions of the remaining privately kept bears in Slovenia which included bear Felix. Following protests, the two responsible Slovenian Ministries conducted inspections of bear owners and imposed sanctions to improve their living conditions. In Felix's case, the authorities were successful, and the owner agreed to voluntarily hand him over to FOUR PAWS. This marks a significant step forward for animal welfare that sets a precedent for other bears in similar situations.

We thank the authorities involved for their support and the owner of Felix for making the right decision to give Felix the chance of a better life. But bears Mici and Tim are still suffering and continue to live in cruel, substandard conditions without specialised veterinary care. FOUR PAWS therefore appeals to their owners to follow the example of Felix's owner and we call on the authorities to continue working to end the private keeping of bears in Slovenia once and for all.

For bear Felix, decades of inappropriate living conditions have likely contributed to various health problems. During his time in captivity, Felix developed degenerative joint disease, resulting in stiffness in his hind legs, and his eyesight also appears to be impaired. However, despite these challenges and his advanced age, Felix remains curious and food-oriented, displaying a zest for life. During his health check Felix was also dewormed and vaccinated so that he is ready for the transfer to BEAR SANCTUARY Arbesbach soon.

Bear Felix should also not be confused with another brown bear named Felix, who has been in our care at BEAR SANCTUARY Müritz in Germany since 2007. For 12 years, he also lived in a small concrete enclosure and since arriving at the sanctuary he has transformed from a very shy and reserved bear into a self-confident and curious one.

Felix's story reminds us of the importance of raising awareness and fostering change for those who cannot speak for themselves. Together, we can work towards a future where all animals are treated with the respect and care they deserve.