Andrés Felipe Vargas Arboleda, Valentina López Velazco, Nicolas Reyes Amaya, Ramiro Velazco, Héctor Males Silva, Leidy Jhoana Escobar Escobar, Arbey Flor, Angela Maria Fajardo, Daniel Rodríguez

We evaluated ecological aspects of the bear population using spatially explicit capture–recapture (SECR) models based on four community camera-trap grids separated by 12 km, totaling 37,824 camera-days over two years. We recorded 529 detections corresponding to 116 individuals (60 males, 40 females, and 16 undetermined). Estimated density was 7.57 individuals/100 km², with a peak of 0.081 individuals/km² during the second sampling period, followed by a gradual decline. The second year showed more detections (343 vs. 186), associated with a 30% increase in females and more cubs, suggesting favorable reproductive conditions in a low human–bear conflict landscape. Density increased with distance from roads (β = 1.59), concentrating in less disturbed areas and confirming the effects of infrastructure on connectivity. Values exceeded those reported for Chingaza National Natural Park, highlighting the strategic importance of this corridor. This study demonstrates that community-based research can sustain real coexistence processes. It honors Adriana Reyes, who led the project and dedicated years to working with corridor communities; following her passing before its completion, these results celebrate her scientific and human legacy.