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Romania Bears: Tourists Brave Danger for Selfies
1 Aug
Summary
- Bears approach tourists who ignore 'no feeding' signs.
- Romania's bear population estimated at 10,000 to 13,000.
- Hunting quotas doubled, but critics question effectiveness.
On Romania's scenic Transfagarasan mountain road, a large group of brown bears emerged to approach tourists, many of whom were taking selfies and feeding the animals despite clear warnings. This incident underscores a significant challenge for Romanian authorities attempting to manage Europe's substantial brown bear population, estimated between 10,000 and 13,000 individuals.
Human-bear encounters are becoming more frequent as development and climate change reduce natural habitats. Nearly 30 people have died from bear attacks in Romania over the past two decades. In response, the country doubled its annual hunting quota to nearly 900, a move criticized by conservationists who believe it won't deter bears from urban areas.
Local authorities now have the power to shoot bears that enter homes and gardens. However, experts like Ciprian Galusca point out that existing non-lethal measures, such as fines for feeding bears and waste management rules, are not being adequately enforced.
