Are you a hunter?

Those who live on the land can contribute to nature conservation by offering a watchful eye.

READING TIME 7 MIN

In Europe and other places, hunting associations have always contributed to nature conservation and offered a watchful eye on the territory. Those who live on the land can be the first to contribute by pointing out and resolving critical issues. However, many hunting practices, such as hunting or dog training, occur in areas and periods that are critical for bears.

As documented by studies, bears may abandon their dens if disturbed. Moreover, bears in this season are also more vulnerable because they are dormant, slowed down and less ready to flee, which can lead to stress.

Read this list of good practices and find the one(s) that suit you best:

Promote and encourage the involvement of Italian hunters’ associations in the protection and monitoring of bear distribution and abundance, e.g. by supporting a system of early warning and timely response in case of a bear sighting, to National Parks or Carabinieri Forestali

Adopt the recommendations of your region, but if they are not yet implemented, be a proponent and advocate for bear-proof hunting methods. Practice round hunting with a maximum of two dogs because it reduces impacts on bears. If you have doubts, get in touch with your nearest Park Authority, where you will find someone who can give you advice. Always respect the days on your hunting calendar. Remember that for bears, being able to anticipate disturbance is a guarantee of greater peace of mind.

If during a hunt you find fresh bear signs, or spot a bear, consider stopping the hunt as soon as possible: stop your dogs and let the bear move away. In this period animals are more stressed and more reactive when challenged. Especially if you see a female with cubs, report their presence to the authorities and consider stopping the hunt immediately in those areas and in the following weeks.

Try to keep your team away from refuge areas, steep and rocky slopes. Bears are very sensitive during this period and may leave their dens. For females it could be risky for future births. If you have any doubts, contact your nearest Park Authority, you will find someone who can give you advice. Bears are active in the twilight hours, so if you can, consider delaying the start time of the hunt to give the bears more time to feed.

For the future of the bear, every small action counts. Spread awareness, raise people’s consciousness, make a difference.

Sign and spread the Carta dell’orso, become a true Bear Ambassador!