When two brown bears, Mish and Lucy, escaped their enclosure at Whipsnade Zoo in England, they didn’t run wild. Instead, the pair embarked on a hilarious honey heist, breaking into the neighboring beehive area and devouring what’s been described as “a week’s worth of honey.” Their adventure ended in a sugar crash—but not before leaving zookeepers stunned and amused
A Sticky Situation
Early in the morning, staff discovered that Mish and Lucy had found a way out of their enclosure. The clever bears had used a fallen tree to climb over the fence, making their way into the adjacent bee area. While the situation had the potential to become dangerous, the bears had no interest in causing trouble. Their focus? Honey.
A Week’s Worth of Sweetness
Once inside, Mish and Lucy helped themselves to an enormous feast. They tore into beehives and licked up every drop of honey they could find. According to the zoo, they consumed a week’s supply in a matter of hours. It was the ultimate bear dream come true—a honey buffet with no one to stop them.
The Great Honey Crash
After their feast, the bears didn’t wander far. The sugar overload knocked them out, and zookeepers found them sound asleep in the same area. It was the kind of nap only a belly full of honey could bring. Rather than resist capture or run away, the pair simply dozed off, making it easy for staff to guide them home.
Zookeepers React with Humor and Relief
Despite the escape, zookeepers handled the situation with calm professionalism—and a bit of humor. No animals or people were harmed, and staff took the incident as an opportunity to review and reinforce security. Still, they couldn’t help but laugh at Mish and Lucy’s honey-fueled mischief. Their escape wasn’t about freedom—it was about snacks.
No Place Like Home
Following the sweet adventure, Mish and Lucy were safely returned to their enclosure. Extra checks and repairs were made to ensure another tree-assisted escape doesn’t happen again. Back in familiar territory, the bears showed no sign of missing the outside world—they had gotten exactly what they wanted, and they were content.
Two Bears, One Sweet Tale
Mish and Lucy’s honey heist is a reminder of how intelligent—and mischievous—animals can be. While they may not have meant to cause a stir, their escapade became a heartwarming tale of curiosity and indulgence. For the staff at Whipsnade Zoo, it was a sticky surprise. For Mish and Lucy, it was the best breakfast ever.
adventuring, photography and videography. I am currently working towards a BSc in Biodiversity and Ecology at Stellenbosch University to go on to specialise in Marine Sciences one day.
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