Bear "Tirol_05" kills Shetland pony on alpine pasture in Pfunds

According to this, the detected animal is a male bear listed in the genetic data under the designation "Tirol_05." This bear had already been detected in 2025 in the Tyrolean Oberland. The repeated detection indicates that the animal is permanently residing in the region.

Alpine farming in Tyrol has faced repeated kills by large predators in recent years. The district of Landeck is particularly affected, where livestock are regularly kept on alpine pastures. The incidents represent not only an economic but also an emotional loss for the affected farmers.

The State of Tyrol has in the past taken measures to protect grazing animals, including subsidies for herd protection measures and fences. The responsible department supports affected farms after kills and reviews possible compensation. The dialogue with the public on dealing with large predators is also being continued.

Effects on Alpine Farming

In addition to the current case in Pfunds, there have been further sightings and indications of bear activity in the Tyrolean Oberland. The authorities ask the public to report bear sightings and to behave prudently in their vicinity. Hikers are made aware of possible encounters through information signs.

For alpine farming in the region, the incident has immediate consequences. The keeping of sheep, goats, and small horses such as Shetland ponies on alpine pastures is made more difficult by the presence of bears. In addition to livestock guardian dogs and electric fences, night enclosures are also used to protect the animals.

The case illustrates the ongoing challenge for the coexistence of humans, livestock, and large predators in the alpine regions of Tyrol. The authorities emphasize that each kill is documented individually and examined genetically in order to better understand the population and behavior of the animals. Findings from such examinations are incorporated into the management of the bear population.

Management of the Bear Population

The genetic assignment to "Tirol_05" supports the thesis that a single animal could be responsible for the incidents in the Tyrolean Oberland. Nevertheless, the authorities do not rule out that further bears are roaming the region. Monitoring with camera traps and the collection of samples will continue.

Farmers in the region are informed about current incidents and can contact the responsible department of the State of Tyrol. Educating the public about rules of conduct in the event of bear sightings is part of the protection concept.

The incident in Pfunds is part of a series of confirmed or suspected bear kills in Tyrol in recent years. The debate about dealing with returning large predators in the Alps continues.