Bärenwald Müritz, Bear sanctuary in Stuer, Germany.
Bärenwald Müritz is a forest sanctuary in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern with lakes and natural enclosures designed for rescued bears from across Europe. The grounds feature climbing structures, water areas, and large open spaces where the animals can roam and explore.
The sanctuary was created to house bears rescued from poor conditions, including former circus and street performers exploited across Europe. This establishment gave many animals their first chance to live dignified lives in natural surroundings.
The forest allows visitors to watch bears dig, climb, and explore as they naturally would, offering a rare chance to observe their instinctive behaviors. Seeing them roam freely here demonstrates why these animals need space and respect.
Wear sturdy shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as trails run through the forest and conditions change with the season. The sanctuary is open year-round, but animals are most active and visible during warmer months when they spend more time outdoors.
Each bear can enter hibernation within its own territory, a natural behavior rarely possible in captivity. This ability to rest deeply through winter is essential to their physical and mental well-being.
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