Slovakia issues warnings after brown bear sightings near cycling routes

Brown bears have been spotted near popular recreational areas and cycling routes in Slovakia, prompting warnings from local authorities. One sighting occurred near the village of Košariská in the Myjava district, close to the cycling path leading to the Brezová pod Bradlom reservoir. Another bear was reported by a cyclist on the Poltár – Rimavská Sobota route near Hrnčiarska Ves.

Local authorities and the State Nature Conservancy (ŠOP SR) have advised residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution. Recommended safety measures include making noise by talking, whistling, or using bells to avoid surprising a bear. Officials urge people to limit movement in dense vegetation and forested areas, particularly during dawn and dusk when bears are most active.

To prevent attracting wildlife, people are asked not to leave food scraps near reservoirs, cycling paths, or homes. Dog owners are advised to keep pets on leashes, as unrestrained dogs may provoke a bear. In the event of an encounter, experts recommend remaining calm, avoiding eye contact, and backing away slowly without running, as running can trigger a bear's hunting instinct.