Bear Spotted in Smiltene; Residents Urged to Be Cautious

A bear was spotted in Smiltene today, confirmed by Marita Mūze, head of the Communications Department of Smiltene Municipality. The municipal police have been alerted and are currently inspecting the Mežu kapu cemetery and Klievezers area where the animal was seen. Residents who encounter the bear are asked to immediately call the municipal police at 28 659 933.

The municipality urges caution across the entire district, as the bear has previously been sighted elsewhere, including near Lake Niedrājis and the village of Mēri. The Nature Conservation Agency (DAP) advises that upon encountering a bear, people should remain calm, keep a safe distance, avoid provoking the animal, and report to the authorities. Actions that cause stress—such as chasing the bear with a car, honking loudly, scaring it with dogs, running after it, or blocking its path—should be avoided.

According to DAP, less stress increases the likelihood that the bear will leave the populated area on its own. Bears typically enter towns while roaming or searching for food, not out of aggression. Residents should contact the local municipality and DAP first, allowing specialists to coordinate the safe removal of the animal from the urban environment.