Serbia reports increase in bear and wolf populations

According to the 2025 Forestry Bulletin released by the Republic Statistical Office, Serbia has seen an increase in the populations of bears and wolves compared to 2023. The number of bears rose to 445, an increase of 72 individuals, while the wolf population grew by 288 to reach a total of 1,919.

Other protected species showed mixed results. The lynx population increased to 69 individuals, up from 58 in 2023. Populations of beavers, otters, steppe polecats, and ermines remained stable. However, the weasel population saw a decline, with 4,233 individuals recorded, which is 757 fewer than in 2023.

Regarding hunting activity, there was a slight decrease in the total number of animals killed in Serbian hunting grounds. In 2025, a total of 223,119 animals were harvested, compared to 229,479 in 2023. The most frequently hunted animal was the pheasant, with 146,556 recorded.