Edinburgh Zoo’s Sun Bear Babu Beats Terminal Cancer in Remarkable Recovery
In a heartwarming turn of events, a 13-year-old sun bear named Babu at Edinburgh Zoo has defied a terminal cancer diagnosis and is now officially in remission. The story of her recovery has captivated animal lovers and medical professionals alike, offering a rare glimpse into the resilience of wildlife and the power of compassionate veterinary care.
A Grim Diagnosis
In April 2024, keepers at the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) noticed troubling changes in Babu’s behavior. She had developed significant swelling in her lymph nodes and exhibited shifts in her eating habits and overall demeanor. These symptoms prompted immediate medical attention, and after thorough investigation, Babu was diagnosed with lymphoma—a form of cancer rarely seen in bears.
The diagnosis was devastating. With limited precedent in veterinary literature, the team had few resources to guide treatment. A second opinion from veterinary oncologist Dr. Isabel Miguel confirmed the worst: Babu’s condition was terminal. The zoo communicated the heartbreaking news to adopters and members, preparing for what they believed would be her final weeks.
Navigating Uncharted Territory
Faced with a rare and aggressive illness, the veterinary team at RZSS embarked on a mission to ensure Babu’s comfort and dignity. “This diagnosis was new territory,” said veterinary surgeon Stephanie Mota. “We found one similar case involving a Himalayan black bear in China, but it died suddenly and there was very little information available to guide us.”
The team turned to canine medicine for insights, as lymphoma is relatively common in dogs. Drawing from these studies, they selected a treatment plan that prioritized minimizing side effects while providing pain relief. The goal was not to cure, but to slow the disease and ease Babu’s discomfort.
A Sweet Strategy
One of the most endearing aspects of Babu’s treatment was the method used to administer her medication. The veterinary team cleverly hid her pills in honey—her absolute favorite treat. Normally reserved for special occasions, honey became a twice-daily indulgence during her recovery. This not only ensured she took her medication but also added a touch of joy to her routine.
“She’s really interested in digging around in her habitat for insects at the moment,” Mota shared. “These inquisitive, natural behaviors are really good signs that she is feeling happy and healthy.”
Signs of Hope
To everyone’s surprise, Babu began to show signs of improvement. After six months of treatment, tests conducted in October 2024 revealed a reduction in cancerous cells. Continued monitoring and further testing in early 2025 showed no detectable signs of the disease. Dr. Miguel confirmed that Babu was in remission.
Professor Simon Girling, head of veterinary services at RZSS, expressed cautious optimism. “We’re delighted that Babu has responded so positively to the medication, especially as we were in uncharted territory. With confirmation of remission, we’ve been able to stop her pain medication and are now gradually reducing her cancer treatment while closely monitoring her condition.”
Vigilant Monitoring
Despite the good news, the veterinary team remains vigilant. Babu’s weight is tracked weekly, and her daily behaviors and appetite are monitored using an objective charting system. This allows keepers to detect any changes early and respond swiftly.
The zoo’s approach to Babu’s care reflects a broader commitment to animal welfare. From the initial diagnosis to the ongoing monitoring, every step has been guided by compassion, expertise, and a deep respect for the animals in their care.
A Beloved Resident
Babu is more than just a patient—she’s a cherished member of the Edinburgh Zoo community. Known for her curious personality and playful antics, she has long been a favorite among visitors. Her recovery has been met with widespread joy, both within the zoo and among the public.
Social media lit up with messages of support and celebration. One fan, Lisa Smith, posted, “So happy to hear this news about Babu—we love her and she’s such a character. Looking forward to seeing her on Wednesday when we visit.”
The Role of Sun Bears in Conservation
Sun bears (Helarctos malayanus) are the smallest species of bear and are native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. They are classified as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), primarily due to habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade.
Known for their sleek black fur and distinctive pale crescent-shaped chest markings, sun bears play a vital role in forest ecosystems. They help control insect populations and disperse seeds, contributing to the health and diversity of their habitats.
Babu’s story not only highlights the importance of individual animal care but also underscores the broader conservation mission of institutions like RZSS. By raising awareness and fostering empathy, stories like hers can inspire action and support for endangered species.
Lessons from Rotana
Babu’s recovery is especially poignant in light of the loss of Rotana, the zoo’s 20-year-old male sun bear, who was euthanized in October 2023 following the rapid spread of cancer. Rotana’s case served as a sobering reminder of how quickly illness can progress in bears, who are known to mask symptoms until it’s too late.
The experience with Rotana informed the team’s approach to Babu’s care. Determined to do everything possible, they reviewed all available literature and consulted experts across disciplines. Their efforts paid off, resulting in one of the most remarkable recoveries in the zoo’s history.