Edinburgh Zoo sun bear Babu in remission following terminal cancer diagnosis

Edinburgh Zoo’s 13-year-old sun bear, Babu, is now in remission following a terminal diagnosis last year.

In April 2024, keepers at the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) noticed Babu developed significant swelling in lymph nodes across her body, accompanied by changes to her behaviour and eating habits. After the wildlife conservation charity’s vets investigated, she was diagnosed with lymphoma – a form of cancer with very limited precedent in bears.  

After seeking a second opinion from Dr. Isabel Miguel, a veterinary oncologist, a terminal diagnosis was confirmed and the veterinary team’s thoughts turned to ensuring quality of life.  

It was thought that Babu had months, or even weeks, to live, with the zoo even communicating the diagnosis to adopters and members.

Stephanie Mota, veterinary surgeon at RZSS, said, “This diagnosis was new territory. 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. Our top priority was that Babu was comfortable and happy in her last days.”

Bears are known to mask symptoms, making it difficult to catch illnesses early. This was the case when Rotana, the zoo’s 20-year-old sun bear, was sadly put to sleep in October 2023 following the rapid spread of cancer.

The team thoroughly reviewed all available literature to help Babu, including studies on canine medicine since lymphoma is relatively common in dogs. They selected a treatment option that minimised potential side effects alongside pain relief, in the hope of slowing Babu’s cancer and easing her discomfort.

To everyone’s surprise, Babu began to improve. After six months of treatment, tests in October 2024 revealed a reduction in cancerous cells.  

Continued monitoring and further testing earlier this year showed no detectable signs of the disease and Dr. Isabel Miguel confirmed that Babu was in remission.

Professor Simon Girling, head of veterinary services at RZSS, said, “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.”

Babu’s weight is tracked weekly, while daily behaviours and appetite are monitored by her keepers using an objective charting system to ensure any changes are spotted early.  

“She’s really interested in digging around in her habitat for insects at the moment,” added Stephanie. “These inquisitive, natural behaviours are really good signs that she is feeling happy and healthy.”

Babu is a popular resident at the zoo, loved by visitors for her curious personality. Her remarkable recovery has been met with joy.  

One of the sweetest parts of Babu’s treatment has been how well she’s taken her medication, thanks to it being hidden in honey – her absolute favourite. Normally saved for special occasions, honey is a rare treat in a sun bear’s diet, but it became part of her twice-daily routine during recovery. The only downside to her remission, keepers joke, is that Babu won’t be getting her beloved honey quite as often anymore.

While her remission is cause for celebration, the veterinary team remain cautiously optimistic.  

Dr Girling added, “This news is better than we ever hoped for, but it wasn’t what we expected and there’s always a possibility that the cancer could return. For now, what matters most is that Babu is happy, healthy and back to her old self.”

Babu’s recovery is a testament to the dedication, expertise, and compassion of the RZSS veterinary team and keepers, whose work continues to ensure the highest standards of care for animals at Edinburgh Zoo and Highland Wildlife Park.