Brown bears are fascinating and shy animals that fear humans, although they are still wild and capable of aggressive behaviour to defend themselves, to protect their offspring or if they are taken by surprise. Close encounters must therefore be avoided. But if this happens, what should we do?
It is advisable to walk in small groups and not alone, make noise to attract attention while avoiding shouting and keep the dog on a leash.
What not to do
- Never abandon food and organic waste
- Do not use bells and bird calls (these sounds may be associated with farm animals and therefore a danger to the bear)
- Never approach a bear den, let alone attempt to enter one
- Do not shout if you encounter a bear
- Do not throw stones or sticks at the animal
- Do not run away
- Do not climb a tree
Sighting at a distance (more than 100 metres)
If you spot a bear in the distance, you can appreciate this rare opportunity. There is no immediate danger, however, it is important to avoid getting close, especially to take photographs. Even if you spot cubs, it is essential to resist the temptation to approach or follow them; the mother may be close by and has a strong protective instinct towards them.
In case of a close encounter
If you are suddenly within a few metres of a bear, it is essential to remain calm and make your presence felt by speaking loudly. Usually, the bear will move away in the face of human noise.
When encountering a bear cub, it is important to move away carefully as the mother is likely to be nearby. This represents one of the rare situations of real danger.
If you encounter a bear that stands up, it does not necessarily mean that it is ready to attack. Like other wild animals such as hares or marmots, bears assume this posture to better identify human presence or other unknown objects. However, it is always advisable to move away slowly without running, ensuring a safe exit for both you and the bear.
If the bear attacks
Normally a bear attacks when there is no escape route, it is provoked or feels in danger (e.g. from its mother), and especially when the encounter occurs unexpectedly. In the event of an attack, lie down with your stomach on the ground and protect the most sensitive parts of the body: hands on the back of the neck, legs closed to protect the abdominal area. Remain still for several minutes after the bear attack has stopped. Usually an attack can last from a few seconds to a minute, until the bear moves away.
Emergency numbers to call
Reports of sightings in South Tyrol, especially in case of aggressive behaviour, can be sent to the Hunting and Fishing Office of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano, tel. +39 0471 415170/71.
In the Autonomous Province of Trento the telephone number +39 335 7705966 is active 24 hours a day, to be contacted to report the presence of bears and to request information and assistance. The number is also linked to the general emergency number 112.
