Brown bear attacks hiker in Slovakia, seriously injuring him

On Wednesday morning, according to authorities, the 36-year-old was in a stabilized condition, despite having sustained numerous injuries, predominantly caused by bites. The exact circumstances of the attack are still being investigated.

Indications of a mother bear

During the incident, the hiker claims to have seen two cubs nearby. This suggests that the attacking animal was a mother bear defending her young. Brown bears, as a rule, tend to attack humans when they are surprised or when they perceive their young to be threatened.

Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area around the attack site for the time being. To detect the animal's reappearance early, a camera trap has been set up in the area, according to TV Markiza.

Background: Bear population in Slovakia

According to the last official census in 2022, there are around 1,200 wild brown bears living in Slovakia. The population has recovered significantly in recent decades, leading to more frequent encounters between humans and animals in forest regions.

In principle, according to the spokesperson, brown bears will avoid humans as long as they notice them in time. However, if surprise encounters occur or if a bear feels threatened by a hiker's proximity to its offspring, an aggressive reaction is possible. Experts recommend slowly backing away and giving the animals space in such situations.

Reactions and measures

In recent years, individual encounters between bears and humans in Slovakia have also been fatal. The current incident in Stranavy is part of a series of incidents that are likely to reignite the debate about how to manage the growing bear population in the country.

Local administrations and nature conservation authorities in Slovakia have long been discussing measures to regulate bear populations, including stricter hunting quotas and awareness campaigns for hikers. A final assessment of the current incident is still pending.

According to their own statements, the Slovak police and the responsible authorities have cordoned off a large area around the attack site. Hiking trails in the vicinity of Stranavy are to be gradually reopened after an inspection by the local forestry authorities.