Brown bear hunting begins on 1 October and continues until 15 May of the following year.
The following are several key situations that may lead to a bear attack:
A sudden close encounter with a female and her cubs: A female bear will react aggressively if she feels that her cubs are threatened. If you accidentally find yourself near the cubs, she may become aggressive in order to protect them.
Approaching an injured bear: An injured bear may become aggressive out of fear or because it feels vulnerable. Approaching an injured bear may cause it to defend itself.
A sudden close encounter with a bear that has no way to retreat: If a bear feels that its path is blocked or that it has no opportunity to escape, it may become aggressive while trying to defend itself.
An off-leash dog provokes a bear and then seeks protection from its owner: A dog owner’s carelessness can create a situation in which the dog challenges a bear and triggers an aggressive reaction from the bear.
Approaching a bear while it is eating: A bear may become aggressive if it feels threatened while feeding. This is especially true if the bear is hungry or feels vulnerable.
Coming into close contact with a bear that is not afraid of people, such as a human-habituated or problem bear: Bears that have become accustomed to the presence of people, or have become problematic because of repeated close interaction with people, may be dangerous. They may not react in the way a typical wild bear would and may be more prone to aggression.
In any of these situations, it is important not to panic and to remain calm. Try to move slowly away from the bear without causing additional stress or aggression. If an attack occurs, defend yourself as effectively as you can by aiming at sensitive areas such as the eyes or nose, and try to call for help as soon as possible.
Hunting dates and methods are provided for information only. Final dates, permits and conditions are confirmed in accordance with the regulations in force and the rules of the relevant hunting ground.
