A sweet little black bear in Michigan is finally living lid-free and the internet can’t stop cheering. After nearly two years of wandering the woods with a stiff plastic ring stuck around its neck, this brave bear is back to living its best life thanks to a heartwarming rescue from wildlife officials (and a whole lot of luck).
The bear was first spotted as a cub in 2023 when researchers saw that it had somehow gotten its head stuck through the opening of a heavy-duty plastic lid that was possibly from a 55-gallon barrel. The lid slipped down around its neck like a collar it never asked for, and despite the awkward accessory, the bear kept growing, exploring, and even showing up now and then on trail cams. It wasn’t ideal, but this little trooper made it work.
Fast forward to June 2025 when a kind landowner spotted the bear wandering around their property, still sporting the lid, and called Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources for help. With the homeowner’s assistance, the team set a humane trap. The very next day, their furry friend took the bait and was finally captured for a long-overdue check-up and, most importantly, a lid removal.
Wildlife officials sedated the bear and gently snipped off the plastic ring. There were some signs of irritation, like scarring and a little hair loss, but the bear was in great shape overall. He weighed in at a healthy 110 pounds and showed all the signs of a young, thriving bear. After a quick exam and some TLC, the team released the bear back into the woods—lighter, happier, and finally free to enjoy forest life without the world’s least fashionable necklace.
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Experts say it’s a small miracle the bear managed to survive (and thrive) for so long with something so cumbersome around its neck. It’s also a gentle reminder to secure trash and remove lids from outdoor barrels and containers, especially in bear country. Tiny choices can make a big difference for wildlife.
Now, thanks to a community of caring humans and one determined bear, this cutie has a brand-new start. No more lid. No more chafing. Just sunshine, trees, and the sweet, sweet taste of freedom. Here’s to hoping this resilient little buddy spends the rest of summer splashing in streams and munching berries—just like a bear should.