What to Do If You Spot a Bear

Brown bear activity has been increasing across Latvia in recent times, including in Cēsis Region. While encounters can feel alarming, it is important to know that bears typically wander into populated areas in search of food – not out of aggression or any intention to attack people.

What to do if you encounter a bear

The most important thing is to stay calm and keep your distance. Report the sighting to the relevant authorities immediately:

– Nature Conservation Agency: pasts@daba.gov.lv
– Municipal Police: 8911

Specialists will coordinate the situation and help the animal leave the area safely.

If you encounter a bear:

• Do not approach, and never attempt to corner or provoke the animal or its cubs
• Do not turn your back – walk away facing the bear
• Move away quickly but calmly – do not run, and keep your eyes on the animal
• Stay quiet and slowly back away

❗ Never do the following:

• Chase the bear with a vehicle
• Run after it or film it at close range
• Frighten it with dogs or loud noise
• Block its path or escape route

The less stress the bear experiences, the more likely it is to leave the area on its own.

Why do bears enter populated areas?

There are several reasons. In spring, young bears separate from their mothers and travel long distances to establish their own territory. Urban areas often offer easy access to food – pet food left outside, unsecured rubbish bins, fruit trees or beehives. In some cases, a bear is simply passing through to reach another destination rather than intending to stay.

How to prevent attracting bears

The best prevention is removing easy access to food. Keep rubbish bins securely closed, do not leave pet food outside and do not feed wild animals. Without a readily available food source, wild animals will look elsewhere.

Are bears dangerous?

The presence of a bear in nature is not in itself a direct threat to human safety. However, in cases where there is an immediate risk to a person’s health or life, the Nature Conservation Agency has the authority to act without delay. Report such situations to: pasts@daba.gov.lv

Cēsis Region is a wonderful place to experience Latvia’s natural beauty – even when nature occasionally surprises you with its wild inhabitants. Stay informed, stay alert and enjoy the outdoors safely and peacefully.