Giulia Bombieri

The Italian Central Alps host a genetically isolated population of brown bears. After the species was considered functionally extinct in the 1990s a reintroduction project was implemented in 1997-2004, which involved the translocation of 10 bears from Slovenia to Trentino. A clear and concerted Action plan has been produced shortly after. The bear population was estimated in 2023 to be 105 individuals (95% CI 91-122). Concurrently with a positive growth trend the level of conflict with humans also increased. A wide range of mitigation and outreach measures has been implemented since 2002, including prevention measures, education programs, bear-proof waste management, community round-table meetings, warning signage, emergency teams and the use of bear dogs to haze bears approaching settlements. Despite these efforts public surveys commissioned by the local government in 1997, 2003, 2011 and 2024 revealed a sharp and progressive decline in public support for bears over time. The latest survey showed that only 23% of residents support the presence of bears, highlighting increased fear for personal safety. This decline in acceptance coincided mostly with a period (2014–2024) during which nine bear attacks on humans were recorded including one fatality (0.82 attacks per year, with an average population of 67 bears). Negative attitudes have been further exacerbated by management challenges; indeed lethal removals of problem bears under the Action Plan rules have been systematically hindered by suspensions or cancellations ordered by the Courts, after legal actions by animal rights associations. After this, the fatality occurred in 2023 prompted further deterioration of public sentiment and possibly increased poaching risk, eventually undermining conservation goals. Addressing these challenges require the use of a diverse set of tools, also including lethal removal of bears when due, to maintain the necessary public support for the long-term conservation of the population.