Italy is home to a unique wildlife presence: bears. These large mammals roam in specific, protected regions, making their presence a distinctive aspect of the country’s natural heritage. This overview explores the different bear populations, their conservation, and guidelines for coexistence.
Bear Species and Their Habitats
Italy hosts two distinct populations of brown bears, each occupying different geographical areas. The Marsican brown bear (Ursus arctos marsicanus) is a unique subspecies found exclusively in the Central Apennine Mountains. This isolated population primarily inhabits the Abruzzo, Lazio, and Molise National Park and its surrounding regions, including other nearby parks like Sirente-Velino Regional Park. Their habitat consists of diverse environments, including dense beech forests, high-altitude grasslands, and lower-lying oak woods and orchards, typically at elevations between 800 and 1700 meters.
The other brown bear population, the European brown bear (Ursus arctos arctos), resides in the Eastern Alps. Specifically, these bears are found in the Trentino region, particularly within the Adamello Brenta National Park. This alpine environment offers rugged mountainous terrain and extensive forested areas, providing suitable conditions for their survival.
Population Status and Conservation
The Marsican brown bear population is classified as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Current estimates suggest there are only about 50 to 70 individuals remaining in the wild, with merely 10 to 12 reproductive females. Their survival is a focus of conservation efforts, protected under both Italian and European legislation. Threats include habitat loss, fragmentation, poaching, and human-induced mortality, often from vehicle collisions or poisoned bait. Conservation initiatives aim to mitigate these conflicts and secure a future for this unique subspecies, including projects like “Rewilding Apennines” and “bear-smart” community programs.
In contrast, the Alpine brown bear population in Trentino has seen a recovery. By the late 1990s, this population was on the brink of extinction, reduced to only a few individuals. A reintroduction program between 1999 and 2002 brought ten bears from Slovenia to reinforce the declining numbers. As a result, the population has grown to approximately 100 bears as of 2023. Despite this growth, challenges remain in managing human-bear interactions and ensuring continued public support for their presence.
Coexisting with Bears: Safety and Awareness
Interacting with areas where bears live requires awareness and adherence to safety guidelines. When hiking or recreating in bear country, make noise by talking or singing to avoid surprising a bear. Staying on marked trails and keeping dogs on a leash also minimizes the chance of an unexpected encounter. Never feed bears or leave food and organic waste, as this can lead to habituation and conflict.
If a bear sighting occurs at a distance, the recommended action is to retreat slowly and quietly, allowing the bear ample space. In a close encounter, remaining calm is important; speak in a low, calm voice and back away slowly without making sudden movements or running. A bear standing on its hind legs typically indicates it is trying to identify what is in front of it, not preparing to attack.
In the rare event of a physical attack, lie face down, protect your head and neck with your arms, and remain still until the bear leaves. Promoting education and responsible behavior is important for fostering peaceful coexistence between humans and these wild animals.