Authorities Issue Warnings as Bear Remains at Large in Sandanski
A bear spotted near the Sandanski Zoo has not been located, prompting local authorities to urge residents and visitors to avoid the area. The Regional Inspection for Environment and Water (RIOSV) – Blagoevgrad, the State Forestry Enterprise – Sandanski, and the Sandanski Regional Police have been informed, according to a statement from the municipality. “We advise citizens to remain cautious and temporarily avoid walking in the designated area,” the local government said. “If the bear is spotted or there is an immediate danger, call 112 with the most precise location,” it added.
Residents Share Close Encounters
Georghi Kamennarov, the zoo manager, noted that the animal has been observed in a one-kilometer radius around the zoo. “We’ve conducted checks, but no visible signs of the bear have been found,” he said. Some locals initially dismissed the sighting as a “fake” created by AI tools like Chat GPT, according to a statement from the municipality.
Bear’s Possible Movements and Behavior
Experts suggest the bear, estimated to be three years old, may return to the city in the coming days as it searches for food. Dense vegetation near the zoo could provide cover, making it difficult to detect. “The bear’s habitat has been within a one-kilometer radius recently,” Kamennarov said. The municipality reiterated that the animal should not be approached or photographed, and that individuals should avoid areas where it might be roaming.
Second Bear Captured in Nearby Village
Meanwhile, the municipality of Devin reported that a second brown bear, which had frequently entered the village of Goven over the past month, was captured and relocated overnight. This follows reports that the Sandanski bear was spotted in the area above the zoo, prompting authorities to send alerts to residents and visitors.
Guidelines for Encountering a Bear
Experts recommend the following steps for encounters: “Stay calm, do not run, yell, or make sudden movements. Do not approach the animal, including for photos, and avoid feeding or trying to scare it. Speak calmly. If the bear is stationary, slowly back away while keeping it in your line of sight and giving it space. If it approaches, stop and remain calm. Do not flee. Keep children close, and never stand between cubs and their mother.”
Search Continues as Authorities Monitor Situation
Despite searches in the surrounding area, the bear has not been found, and no new signs of its presence have been identified. The search is expected to continue in the coming days. Authorities have conducted checks within a one-kilometer radius of the zoo, but no new signs of the bear have been found. Experts suggest the animal may return to the city as it seeks food.
FAQ
What is the age of the bear in Sandanski?
Experts estimate the bear to be approximately three years old, based on observations from the municipality.
Has a second bear been removed from the area?
Yes, a second brown bear that had frequently entered the village of Goven was captured and relocated overnight by authorities.
What should people do if they encounter a bear?
The municipality advises remaining calm, avoiding sudden movements, and contacting emergency services at 112 with precise location details. Approaching the animal is strongly discouraged.
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