Bears Emerge from Hibernation at Sanctuary in Lviv Region: What’s Happening Now.

How Bears Are Waking Up in Western Ukraine

According to TSN.ua: Most of the bears at the Domazhyr sanctuary in the Lviv region have come out of hibernation, including a female named Yulia and a male called Potap. The facility is home to 27 rescued animals, though some—like the cubs Runa and Kodi—never slept this winter. Bears typically hibernate for three to four months, and occasionally up to five, but this year several individuals became active earlier than usual.

Yulia woke up a few days ago, while Potap has been busy tearing apart his den after emerging, according to sanctuary staff. Andriy Churylo, a representative of the shelter, commented:

“When the bears wake up, we observe them for several days. They got through the winter quite well—I’d say excellently.”

This indicates that the conditions at the sanctuary are supporting the animals’ well-being.

Staff prepared comfortable enclosures and bedding for the bears, but as Churylo noted, 'they didn’t use them. The snow was something new for them.' This shows how the bears are adapting to environmental changes after hibernation.

Tourist Season Begins at Domazhyr

The tourist season at Domazhyr has already started, allowing visitors to observe these majestic animals in a natural setting. The sanctuary continues its vital mission of rescuing bears and providing them with favorable living conditions.

The bears’ awakening not only confirms their health but also draws attention to the broader issue of wildlife protection. Thanks to the efforts of the sanctuary’s team, the bears receive necessary care and a comfortable environment—highlighting the importance of such facilities in preserving threatened species. With the start of the tourist season, the sanctuary also has a chance to raise public awareness about nature conservation and animal protection.