Poland debates bear management following increased human encounters

The Polish Sejm's Environmental Protection Committee recently held a heated debate regarding the increasing frequency of bear encounters in residential areas, particularly in the Bieszczady region. Local officials, including Wiesław Kuzio, Vice-Starost of Lesko County, reported that bears have been appearing in town centers, such as Lesko, posing risks to both humans and domestic animals.

In response to calls for more decisive action, the General Directorate for Environmental Protection (GDOŚ) stated that authorities primarily utilize deterrent methods, such as rubber bullets, to manage wildlife. However, officials clarified that the elimination of specific individuals remains a possibility in extreme cases where deterrents fail. To enhance safety, a third intervention group will be established to join existing teams in Cisna and Polańczyk.

While local leaders have noted that existing intervention teams have improved safety, some lawmakers have accused the Ministry of Climate and Environment of inaction. Vice-Minister Urszula Zielińska noted that culling alone does not address the underlying causes of human-wildlife conflict. Additionally, the “Wataha” project is scheduled to begin more detailed bear population studies in 2027.