Romanian bear attacks spark safety concerns in Harghita and Kovászna

A bear assaulted a hunter and his assistant on Wednesday evening in Kászonújfaluban, Harghita County, leaving the 48‑year‑old and 65‑year‑old men with multiple bite wounds. Both were treated and are in stable condition. The incident is the latest in a series of recent bear attacks in the region, prompting local officials to call for intensified bear‑control measures and a review of hunting quotas.

In the nearby town of Kovászna, bears have become a regular presence, entering hospital courtyards and hotel premises. This year the municipality has had to shoot three male bears, and a total of 12 bears have been culled under an emergency government ordinance. Local leaders criticize the state for a sluggish response, noting that the frequent bear sightings deter tourists and generate safety costs. Both incidents highlight growing tensions between wildlife management policies and community safety in Romania.