Authorities in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, the capital of Russia’s remote Kamchatka peninsula, have intensified efforts to tackle an alarming increase in bear encounters, deploying night patrols to protect residents from potential danger.
Acting Mayor Yevgeny Belyayev announced the initiative on Monday, marking the city’s first coordinated response to what has become a significant public safety concern.
“Our city has never faced bears wandering into town like this,” Belyayev said. “It’s important to ensure the safety of the residents of the city, who are lucky enough to live side by side with wildlife.”
The decision to launch night patrols came after a marked rise in bear sightings, with more than 450 reported across Kamchatka this season alone.
The patrol groups, comprising seven teams, have been tasked with responding to calls from concerned residents and searching for bears in the dark using thermal imaging drones.
Mayor Belyayev personally met with one of the patrol teams, commending their efforts in maintaining public safety.
“The group is on night duty and uses a thermal imaging drone to search for animals in the dark,” he said on social media, adding that the teams would be stationed at key locations to monitor bear movements and intervene if necessary.
Bear Incursions on the Rise
Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky has been on high alert for bear incursions since Friday, with the local government taking extra precautions to prevent attacks.
The city’s unique position, nestled on the edge of the Kamchatka wilderness, makes it a frequent destination for wildlife, but the sudden influx of bear sightings has left many residents uneasy.
Kamchatka’s government reported that over 30 bears have been killed in the past week as authorities tried to manage the situation. Bears have been increasingly drawn to populated areas, scavenging for food as the summer season dwindles.
Tragically, the region has already recorded one fatal bear attack this year, in which a 38-year-old fisherman lost his life.
Wildlife in Kamchatka
Kamchatka is home to around 24,500 bears, a population that coexists with the region’s residents under normal circumstances.
However, an imbalance in food sources or environmental factors can drive the bears closer to human settlements. This year’s surge in sightings has been linked to food scarcity in the wild, prompting the bears to wander into cities and towns in search of sustenance.
While bears are generally shy and avoid human contact, they can become aggressive if startled or threatened. Local wildlife experts have urged residents to exercise caution, avoid leaving food outside, and report any bear encounters immediately.
Protecting Residents and Wildlife
Authorities have been working to balance public safety with wildlife conservation. “We are trying to manage the situation without further loss of life, both human and animal,” said one official from the Kamchatka regional government.
Efforts to relocate or scare off bears are ongoing, though the patrol teams have authorization to use force if necessary.
As patrols continue, the residents of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky are being asked to remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines.
Mayor Belyayev emphasized that the situation, though unprecedented, is under control: “We will keep monitoring the area to protect our city and its people while respecting the wildlife we share this beautiful region with.”
With bear activity still high, authorities remain committed to ensuring that both residents and the region’s iconic wildlife are kept safe during this challenging period.