‘Stubby’ the Three-Legged Bear Released Back Into the Wild

A three-legged bear in Minnesota (affectionately named "Stubby") has now been released back into the wild. Get the story here. The post ‘Stubby’ the Three-Legged Bear Released Back Into the Wild appeared first on Outdoors with Bear Grylls.

Apr 28, 2026 - 17:00
 0  0
‘Stubby’ the Three-Legged Bear Released Back Into the Wild

A gunshot wound left one black bear in Minnesota one leg short, but wildlife specialists have hope that the animal will still live a good life. Thanks to surgery and months of rehabilitation, the three-legged bear (affectionately named “Stubby”) has now been released back into the wild.

Wild and Free recently shared the good news on Facebook, saying: “After months of care, building up his strength, and surprising us all, our three-legged bear [returned to] the wild last week. What started as uncertainty turned into something incredible—he not only adapted, but thrived, even climbing trees like a pro (something we weren’t sure would ever be possible for him).”

[RELATED: This Shorebird Has Too Many Legs (for the Most Adorable Reason)]

The non-profit says that watching the bear beat the odds is something staff won’t forget.

See photos of Stubby the three-legged bear here.

Watch footage of the release here.

Header stock image by Stan Tekiela Author / Naturalist / Wildlife Photographer/Getty Images

The post ‘Stubby’ the Three-Legged Bear Released Back Into the Wild appeared first on Outdoors with Bear Grylls.

What's Your Reaction?

like

dislike

love

funny

angry

sad

wow