Conservationists in Slovakia are calling for an immediate stop to the ‘massive bear culling’ after authorities announced that 160 bears have already been shot this year. The government approved a cull of 350 bears in April, citing rising threats to humans and a growing bear population.
Slovakia’s nationalist government declared a state of emergency in several districts due to “undesirable” bear activity, following a series of deadly attacks. The new policy even permits the consumption of brown bear meat, sparking outrage among environmentalists.
Environment Minister Tomas Taraba defended the cull, stating that the country has a positive population curve for bears and requires broad regulation. State Secretary Filip Kuffa estimated that, considering natural deaths and hunting, the total population reduction may reach around 200 animals.
However, conservationists strongly oppose the policy. Marian Hletko warned that the ‘massive bear culling’ could drive the species toward extinction within decades. Lawmaker Michal Wiezik also criticized the government, saying the killings are “destroying nature on an unprecedented scale” and must stop immediately.
Under European Union directives, bears may only be culled if they pose a direct threat to humans or property and if no other solutions are available. Critics argue that the increased killings have not reduced bear attacks. This year alone, 19 incidents injured 17 people.
Slovakia’s bear population is estimated between 1,012 and 1,275 animals. Last year, 92 bears were shot in the country, which has a population of 5.4 million people. Environmentalists emphasize that non-lethal measures, such as better waste management and secure livestock enclosures, could reduce conflicts without endangering the species.
The debate over Slovakia’s bear policy has drawn international attention, highlighting tensions between public safety concerns and wildlife conservation. With calls to end the ‘massive bear culling’ growing, the government faces increasing pressure to adopt more sustainable approaches to manage its bear population.
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