Experts explain how to act when meeting a bear in the forest
As the brown bear population grows in Latvia, zoologist Vilnis Skuja and insurer ERGO offer practical advice on avoiding dangerous situations and reacting properly during an encounter.
Why bears are seen more often
Bear sightings in Latvia have become more frequent in recent years, and it's not just perception—the bear population is indeed increasing. Zoologist Vilnis Skuja points out that people now often record encounters because almost everyone carries a phone with a camera, and information spreads quickly on social media. Most encountered bears are young individuals aged three to seven years, searching for their own territory. Adult bears (around ten years old) have already settled and move within a small area, so they are met less often. The highest chance of seeing a bear remains in North Vidzeme near the Estonian border, but sightings are increasingly reported in other regions of Latvia as well.
How to act when meeting a bear
A brown bear is Latvia's largest land predator—an adult male can weigh over 250 kg and run up to 50 km/h over short distances, making escape attempts futile. If the bear hasn't noticed you, it's best to stay still and let it leave. If it approaches, back away slowly without running, and try not to turn your back. A bear standing on its hind legs is not a sign of aggression but a way to get a better view.
Climbing a tree is not a universal solution: adult bears dislike it, but young bears and cubs are agile climbers. If cubs are visible, be extra cautious as the mother is nearby. Also avoid areas with carcasses or gathering birds, where a bear may be feeding.
When in a group, stay together and talk calmly so the animal notices you early. If a bear comes closer, stand close together and spread jackets to appear larger. When alone, make noise periodically—clap, whistle, jingle keys—to alert the bear.
When a bear enters property
Bears come to homes in search of food, attracted by compost, beehives, or animal feed. If a bear returns repeatedly, report it to the State Forest Service, Nature Conservation Agency, or local municipality. Initially, try to scare it off with loud metallic sounds; if it continues approaching, stay indoors. Gunshots and fire usually don't work, but bear deterrents with a sticky gel stream suitable for European brown bears can be used.
Never feed wild animals—bears quickly associate human scent with food, become bolder, and enter populated areas more often. As ERGO representative Vita Zukule emphasizes, the key is understanding bear behavior and staying calm. Although the insurer has not recorded any claims from bear incidents, accident insurance can help in case of injuries, and property insurance may cover damage caused by the animal.
