Wolf and Bear Attacks Endanger Livestock in Slovenia and Bosnia

In Slovenia, a surge of wolf and bear attacks on small livestock in the Karawank mountains has prompted an emergency meeting of the Jesenice branch of the Agricultural and Forestry Association (KGZS). Officials reported that wolves killed at least 19 sheep with up to 50 more missing, while bears killed four sheep and two lambs in the Plavški Rovt area. The attacks have reduced the number of grazing animals from around 700 to about 100, threatening the viability of mountain pasturing. The KGZS panel called for a meeting with the Ministry of Agriculture and the ministry responsible for natural resources to discuss zoning, population control, compensation schemes and legislative changes.

In Central Bosnia, the municipality of Oborci reported an increase in bear sightings near the village of Donji Vakuf. Local officials urged residents to install electric fences, secure livestock and apiaries, and avoid approaching the animals. The hunting society "Semešnica" said it cannot shoot the protected bears and will instead set up feeding stations deeper in the forest to encourage the animals to move away from settlements. Authorities emphasized precautionary measures and rapid reporting of new sightings.