Slovakia Considers Culling Problem Bears as Attacks Increase
The issue of regular bear attacks has escalated into a political question in Slovakia, drawing attention from the highest level of government.
Prime Minister Robert Fico's cabinet has approved a constitutional bill that would allow the culling of bears that wander into human settlements, reported by mandiner.hu.
The urgency of the matter comes in the wake of an increase in bear attacks, with 14 incidents recorded last year and the numbers this year already exceeding 10. The Slovak authorities have registered two more bear attacks in the past few days, including an incident last Sunday where a volunteer firefighter sustained serious injuries to his leg after being attacked by a bear.
Furthermore, last Thursday, the Slovak Fishing Association reported an attack on their website. A man was assaulted by a bear while fishing at the Píľanský stream. In light of these recent events, the association has issued a caution to those fishing or spending time in the area to be extremely vigilant while outdoors.
This proposal reflects growing concerns over public safety and wildlife management in Slovakia.