Bear encounters soar in Trentino, prompting safety measures

The Italian province of Trentino is increasingly troubled by bears. The animals approach homes and wander the streets in search of food. Authorities have devised a plan to address this and ensure the safety of residents.

According to official data, 98 bears over one year old live in Trentino. However, the news agency Agi suggests there may be up to 120. These wild mammals are also common in neighbouring South Tyrol.

Bears are increasingly strolling through city streets. A few weeks ago, a bear approached a polling station in the town of Bozzana in the province of Trentino while votes were being counted in the European elections.

In Male, a confused, large bear wandered the streets searching for food during celebrations honouring the patron saint. Another bear destroyed two beehives and tried to open four more to get to the honey.

In Trentino, the presence of these animals causes particular concern among the populace, especially after a jogger was fatally attacked in the forest last year. It was the first such incident this century. The authorities, therefore, want to implement a new plan to provide residents with a greater sense of security.

The head of the local government, Maurizio Fugatti, informed the Environmental Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin of the intention to distribute special bear repellant spray to the residents. “All residents of the Trentino province should be equipped with bear spray,” said the head of the local authorities. He believes this is necessary due to the increasing number of bears entering towns and villages.