Bear alerts exceed 380 in Harghita County; locals erect electric fences

Residents of Romania's Harghita County are living in a state of constant fear due to an escalating number of bear encounters. Wild animals are increasingly venturing into areas close to homes and villages, prompting widespread concern.

Authorities have dispatched over 380 RO-Alert messages this year, warning of bear presence within populated localities, according to Digi24. This alarming frequency has led many residents to avoid leaving their homes after dark and to closely monitor their children. The bears have caused damage to properties, destroyed crops, and attacked domestic animals in several communities.

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I don't let my daughters go alone, not even by bike, not even on foot.

"I don't let my daughters go alone, not even by bike, not even on foot," said one resident from Șumuleu-Ciuc, highlighting the pervasive anxiety. The situation has also drawn criticism from local administrations. Molnar Jozsef, the mayor of Tușnad commune, stated that the current legal framework restricts intervention options outside of inhabited zones. "We have already had 13 interventions by July. As mayor, I don't think I should be chasing bears," he commented, advocating for changes in legislation regarding bear population management.

In response to the growing threat, some locals have begun installing electric fences around their properties and agricultural land. The Harghita County Gendarmerie reported approximately 120 intervention operations to drive away bears and the capture of over 20 bears by the end of July. Amidst the rising number of incidents, both residents and officials are urgently seeking effective solutions to mitigate risks and ensure community safety.

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We have already had 13 interventions by July. As mayor, I don't think I should be chasing bears.