Tamá, the spectacled bear who spent 11 years in human care, died during an air transport during his release process. Environmental authorities regret the loss of the conservation symbol.
News Colombia.
Tamá, the spectacled bear who remained in a rehabilitation process for 11 years, died from respiratory complications while being transported by air for release into the natural habitat.
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Tamá, the emblematic spectacled bear who remained under human care for more than a decade, died this Wednesday, December 17 while being transported by air in the final phase of his return process to the natural habitat.
This mammal, according to information from National Parks, could not be left in Chingaza, because it was born in the PNN Tamá and the rule indicates that when it is released it must be in its place of origin, especially due to the genetic characteristics that must be maintained in the populations.
The death was confirmed by National Natural Parks (PNN) and the Jaime Duque Park Foundationentities that accompanied the rigorous rehabilitation process of the specimen, considered a symbol of efforts to conserve wildlife in the country.
Respiratory complications during air transport
According to the official report, the bear presented breathing difficulties during the flight, after adverse weather conditions prevented landing at the planned point. Given the risk, the technical team decided to return to the Camilo Daza airport in Cúcutaprioritizing the safety of the animal and the staff in charge.
It was during this journey that Tamá’s health condition worsened. Although it received immediate medical attention and resuscitation maneuvers, the animal did not respond to the procedures and finally died.
“Tamá presented signs of respiratory difficulty that were treated promptly. However, he did not respond to the medical care provided and, with deep pain, we lost him on his way to freedom,” the entities said in a joint statement.
A release process planned over three years
The liberation of Tamá was part of a structured plan over three yearssupported by several national and international organizations, including the Spectacled Bear Sanctuarythe Wii Foundationthe CAR Cundinamarca, Corpoguavio, Corponor and Inparques Venezuela.
According to the environmental authorities, the specimen had satisfactorily passed the medical, ethological and technical protocolswhich allowed the transfer to begin on December 16. However, the outcome was unexpected.
Authorities initiated scientific and legal protocols
After the emergency landing in Cúcuta, the environmental entities activated the corresponding procedures to determine, under scientific criteriathe exact causes of the bear’s death.
PNN and the Parque Jaime Duque Foundation reiterated that the entire process was developed under strict technical, ethical and scientific principleswith the animal’s well-being as an absolute priority.
Tamá’s story showed how complex and challenging each species reintroduction process is. Even if we have the best technology, rigorous protocols and constant monitoring, risks are always present.
Tamá weighs more than 174 kilos, he is a strong bear, he measures about 1.85 m and is in excellent health.
While you hydrate, you prepare to leave Cúcuta heading to PNN Tamá. With satellite monitoring, your return will be accompanied step by step. 🐻💧 #TamáVuelveACasa pic.twitter.com/j99CEYZHtV— National Natural Parks of Colombia (@ParquesColombia) December 17, 2025
