Bears on the Prowl: Rising Human Encounters in Slovak Villages

A recent video has surfaced online, capturing the alarming moment when a driver chased a young bear through the heart of a Slovakian village. This incident highlights the increased presence of bears in human environments, with Slovakian bears being notably active this year.

This year, Slovakia has had an unprecedented spike in bear encounters, including attacks in areas beyond the usual trails. Additionally, videos confirming that bears are boldly making their way into towns have been circulating online.

According to a report by an RMF FM reporter, this week saw further bear-related disturbances in central Slovakia, particularly in the regions of Zvolen and Previdza.

A particularly striking video, which has sparked widespread discussion, shows a passenger car in hot pursuit of a young bear in the centre of Očová village.

The incident occurred around 4:30 GMT, following residents' alerts about a bear sighting nearby. Fortunately, the bear did not cause any harm.

Experts believe the bear, approximately three years old, was seen sprinting several hundred metres ahead of its pursuer, seemingly trapped with no escape route. The driver's actions have been met with significant criticism.

Another report from the Previdza area, located several kilometres away, described a bear wreaking havoc among livestock, tearing apart sheep in the village centre of Porubka. Emergency responders were dispatched, and residents were cautioned.

It’s important to note that bears in Slovakia are under legal protection.

Source: RMF24/WP