Michal the bear surprises everyone: the first to go into hibernation!
The winter season begins in the Müritz bear forest: Michal the bear is the first to go into hibernation. Zoo visitors are thrilled!

Michal the bear surprises everyone: the first to go into hibernation!
The Müritz Bear Forest started the winter season on November 27, 2025 with a great surprise: Michal the bear was the first of his fellow bears to begin hibernation. This news was officially shared on the zoo's Facebook page, where a video of Michal comfortably retreating into his concrete tube is also shown. Visitors to the bear forest were thrilled and surprised, as many had expected Ida to be the first bear to go into hibernation. Instead, Michal took the hearts of the guests by storm and became the new audience favorite. Some visitors even gave him a celebratory farewell as the zoo team looks forward to seeing which bear will be next. Dasha or maybe Ida? There is a lot of speculation among visitors - the situation is perceived as very exciting.
The fact that Michal was the first choice shows how changeable life is in the Bärenwald. Visitors have the opportunity to experience the animals up close and discover new facets of their characters. But that's not all the Bear Forest has to offer! Anyone who has always wanted to take a look behind the scenes has the opportunity to take part in the “Day behind the scenes at BÄRENWALD Müritz” event. There you can not only get to know the work of the animal care team, but also prepare bear snacks and make toys yourself. For 180 euros per person (250 euros for two) you can experience the fascinating world of bear keepers in around four hours. Appointments are possible from May to October and places are limited to a maximum of two people per appointment. This gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the exciting work undisturbed.
A look at the diversity of zoos
Like the Bear Forest, there are also exciting animal experiences in other parts of Northern Germany. An example of this is the Neumünster Zoo, which is located in Schleswig-Holstein near Bremen. The motto here is “education through emotion,” which appeals particularly to younger visitors. A visit here is tempting, among other things, with Vitus, the largest polar bear in Germany, which measures an impressive 3.60 meters. The walk-in outdoor area of the Barbary macaques and the great play opportunities for children make the park a special destination for families.
Other great animals include seals and penguins, which are among the public's favorites. Neumünster Zoo is home to over 700 animals, including alpacas, dingoes and arctic foxes. There is also the opportunity to celebrate special occasions such as weddings and children's birthdays in this unique environment. The combination of entertainment and learning opportunities makes the zoo an ideal destination for a family trip or an unforgettable day with friends.
With such exciting offers and animal experiences, the winter season in the Bärenwald Müritz is sure to be a special time for all nature and animal lovers. Whether visiting the resting bears or taking an exciting look behind the scenes - the bear forest has a lot to offer and remains a popular excursion destination in the region.