Mount Ozren, Bosnia-Herzegovina – Petar Tubic discovered a tiny bear cub alone in the forest in 2019 and brought her home. The decision set his life on a new course that continues to shape his days and those of the animal now known as Masa. ([1]) The cub weighed just two kilograms when Tubic found her. Without intervention she faced almost certain death in the mountains.
A Cub in Need Finds a Home
Tubic fed the young bear milk and fruit until she recovered. He had little prior experience with bears, yet the animal quickly became part of daily life on the property near Doboj. Masa grew rapidly. She now weighs roughly 150 kilograms and continues to put on weight ahead of winter. Despite her size she still attempts to climb into Tubic’s lap the way she did as a cub. Play sessions sometimes leave bruises or torn clothing, though the bear shows no aggressive intent.
Daily Life With Two Bears
Tubic later took in a second female bear named Ljubica. The pair shares the enclosure with wolves, deer, raccoons and other rescued animals. Visitors regularly stop by the site, which has become a modest local attraction. Tubic works as an electrician and enjoys paragliding, caving and hiking. His wife Milica and nine-year-old daughter Eva share the home and the routines that revolve around the animals. “The stuffed bear is the most popular toy in the world,” Tubic said. “Now imagine having a real bear by your side who is irresistible, but also a huge responsibility.”
Questions of the Wild
Tubic has considered returning the bears to the forest. He worries they have grown too accustomed to people and would face danger if released. For now the animals remain on the property. He describes the experience as mutual education. The bears have drawn him into a world he once overlooked, while he has provided them safety and care. “People often say that they are my pets, but I would turn that around and say I am more of a pet to them,” he said. “They shaped my life, and I shaped theirs in some way.” “You could say we’ve been educated together.”
AI Disclaimer: This article was created with the assistance of AI tools and reviewed by a human editor.