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February 15, 2026
Winter Won't Last Long
Today, on the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus, visitors to the Belgrade Zoo witnessed the bear Dunja, after leaving her den, not being frightened by her own shadow and not returning to her shelter. According to long-standing folk belief, this gesture heralds the imminent end of winter troubles and the arrival of warmer days.
TL;DR
- The holiday, celebrated in Serbia as Statehood Day, is linked to ancient folk customs and the cycle of seasons.
- Folk belief states that on this day, winter and summer meet, and observing animals like bears can predict the weather.
- If a bear retreats into its den due to its shadow, it indicates six more weeks of winter.
- Similar traditions exist in other cultures, such as Germany with badgers and the famous Groundhog Day in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania.
- Belgrade's bear, Dunja, did not retreat into her den, suggesting an early arrival of spring.
- The tradition highlights the importance of preserving folk customs and beliefs.
- Serbia is also commemorating its history and celebrating statehood today.
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