April 25, 2023, 2:42 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
Until recently, people in Germany didn’t have to worry about encountering a bear while jogging or walking their dog in the woods. Wild bears are extremely rare in Germany—for now. However, sightings have increased in recent years, and experts consider it quite likely that bears could become native to Germany once again.
According to official estimates, around 17,000 bears live in Europe, with particularly large populations in Italy and Romania. Experts already have evidence that brown bears are present near Germany’s borders. Recently, a bear attack in Italy resulted in the death of a 26-year-old jogger in the Trentino municipality of Caldes. In Upper Bavaria’s Rosenheim, a brown bear killed sheep on an alpine pasture. Bear tracks have also been spotted in the snow in Tyrol. This raises the question for many: How should I react if I encounter a bear in the wild?
Also of interest: Are bears soon returning to Germany?
Talk and Sing Loudly While Hiking
Even though there is currently a lot of media coverage about bears, there is still no reason to panic. Wildlife experts emphasize that bear attacks are very rare. However, if you find yourself in an area with many black and brown bears, experts recommend traveling in groups, carrying bear spray, and not running away if a bear approaches you. It would quickly catch up to you anyway. Running could trigger its hunting instinct, making it likely to chase you. Contrary to popular belief, bears can climb trees—and quite quickly at that.
Since bears dislike surprises, experts also advise talking, singing, or clapping loudly while hiking so the animals know you’re nearby. If you approach a stream or a bend in the path, you should be even louder to ensure nearby bears don’t miss your presence. Additionally, the WWF recommends avoiding dense brush in bear areas and not leaving food scraps behind, as these could attract bears.
Experts Advise: Don’t Run from Bears
But what if your noise and singing don’t deter the bear? The general rule is to stay calm, experts say. Bears are naturally cautious and tend to avoid humans, according to the State Office for the Environment (LfU) and the Nature Conservation Association (BN). However, bears are also curious, which may include encounters with humans.
Even though the animals may seem imposing, experts strongly advise against running away, making frantic movements, or trying to drive the animal away with sticks or stones. Instead, keep an eye on the bear, speak calmly, and slowly retreat. It’s essential to give the animal an escape route and not corner it. If an attack does occur, the WWF recommends lying on the ground and placing your hands on your neck. This signals to the bear that you are not a threat. Experts suggest playing dead until the bear moves on.
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Sources
- stern.de, “Not Every Bear Is a ‘Problem Bear’: What We Can Learn from Other Countries”, (Accessed on 04/25/2023)
- washingtonpost.com, “What Should I Do if I See a Bear? First, Don’t Run Away”, (Accessed on 04/25/2023)
- nzz.ch, “Stay Calm and Don’t Run Away! What to Do if a Brown Bear Suddenly Stands Before You?”, (Accessed on 04/25/2023)
- planet-wissen.de, “Behavioral Rules in the Realm of Bears”, (Accessed on 04/25/2023)