Since Russia began its military invasion of Ukraine, countless tales of courage and determination have emerged from the Ukrainian people. Among them are the selfless individuals who have remained in the conflict zone to protect and care for animals, despite the constant threat of gunfire and bombings. These brave souls, choosing to stay behind, are not only attending to the needs of these animals but also risking their lives daily.

One recent, tragic event has brought this reality into focus. At Feldman Ecopark, a well-known zoo in Kharkiv, two dedicated staff members lost their lives while remaining on site to ensure the animals’ well-being. Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, has suffered relentless bombing, turning it into one of the most volatile zones in the ongoing conflict. Against this backdrop, numerous zoo employees have continued their work, desperately trying to move animals to safer locations while navigating the constant threat of danger.

In early March, two of these employees went missing. These individuals were last seen fulfilling their duties at the zoo, ensuring that the animals were fed and attended to even as chaos erupted around them. Despite an exhaustive search effort conducted by the remaining staff and local authorities, there was no news of their whereabouts for weeks. The zoo’s worst fears were confirmed when it was announced that the bodies of these two courageous workers had been found. According to statements from the zoo, Russian forces were responsible for their deaths. The bodies were discovered in a barricaded back room, having suffered fatal gunshot wounds.

The zoo’s statement on this heart-wrenching discovery was filled with sorrow and respect for their fallen colleagues. “We will cherish the blessed memory of these wonderful and courageous people,” a representative from Feldman Ecopark expressed. “Our sincerest condolences go out to their families and friends.” The zoo also voiced a strong condemnation, declaring a firm belief that those responsible for these atrocities would ultimately face justice.

For Feldman Ecopark, this tragedy is one of many challenges in their fight to care for animals amidst the ongoing violence. In the face of relentless bombings, the zoo has seen numerous enclosures damaged or destroyed. Their team has been racing against time to find alternative housing for several of their larger animals, including lions, tigers, and bears. This task carries a grim urgency; without immediate relocation, the animals may face euthanasia to prevent them from escaping and potentially harming local residents if their enclosures are compromised.

Alexander Feldman, founder of the zoo, shared his deep anguish over the situation. He emphasized the difficult decisions the zoo must make, balancing the lives of the animals with the safety of nearby communities. “It is unimaginably painful to talk about this,” Feldman admitted. “But the main priority now is the lives of people.”

Fortunately, some of Feldman Ecopark’s animals have managed to escape the worst of the conflict. Recently, two white lions were transported safely to the zoo in Odesa, a city located farther from the frontlines. The Odesa Zoo has been instrumental in providing sanctuary, responding swiftly to Feldman Ecopark’s call for assistance. This transfer, and others like it, offer a glimmer of hope in an otherwise dire situation.

Despite the daily hazards, Feldman Ecopark’s staff has not given up. The zoo has continued to appeal to supporters, both locally and internationally, to aid in their efforts. As of a recent update, the zoo expressed gratitude for the transportation, cages, and other resources beginning to flow in. Their call for help has resonated with individuals and organizations far and wide, prompting a community of animal lovers willing to brave the dangers to help rescue the animals.

The zoo’s post communicated a cautiously optimistic outlook: “Today, efforts to save our animals will not only continue but will hopefully double and triple.” Though obstacles remain, they are determined to persevere. The outcome of these rescue efforts remains unpredictable, but the staff and volunteers at Feldman Ecopark continue to believe in a positive resolution. “We are waiting for positive news,” they wrote, hoping that their efforts will not be in vain.

The risks that these individuals face are constant. In a recent account, the zoo detailed an alarming incident that occurred while rescuing wolves from the area. As staff prepared to evacuate these animals, Russian forces targeted the group, despite their clearly peaceful intent. The zoo reported that drones, often followed by shelling, frequently hover over the zoo’s territory, as Russian troops continue to monitor the area. The staff described the harrowing experience of evacuating the wolves under threat, underscoring the difficulty of their work in such hostile conditions.

These ongoing efforts demonstrate a profound commitment to protecting the lives of animals, even when human lives are in peril. Feldman Ecopark’s employees, alongside many volunteers and animal welfare organizations, have united in their mission to ensure the survival of these creatures. In times of unimaginable adversity, their bravery shines as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

As the conflict in Ukraine rages on, we pay tribute to these heroes, especially those who have given their lives in service to the animals they loved. Their sacrifice is a powerful reminder of the compassion that persists even in the darkest of times. While Feldman Ecopark continues its rescue operations, the memory of those who fell in the line of duty will remain in the hearts of many.

In Ukraine, countless brave men and women continue to face danger each day, driven by love and responsibility for the animals under their care. We hope they stay safe amid the chaos, and may their courage inspire others to lend a hand wherever they can.