The spring brought good news for biodiversity: the brown bear continues to recover its place in the Pyrenees of Spain. Only in Vall d’Aran, naturalists identified at least 15 different specimens, including females with cubs, males, and dispersing young.
Thanks to constant and non-invasive monitoring, it was confirmed that the species has settled in key territories such as Aran and Pallars Sobirà. The visual and biological records of these animals reinforce the idea that their return is possible without conflicts if managed properly.
Currently, the total population throughout the Pyrenean mountain range is around 96 bears, of which 47 live in Catalan territory. Just in 2024, 10 new births were recorded in this region, an encouraging figure for a species classified as “endangered.”
Protected by European regulations, the brown bear not only represents a species in recovery but also an opportunity to enhance mountain ecosystems through ecotourism and sustainable rural development.
## Living with bears: a challenge and an opportunity
As the bear population grows, so do the challenges. The expansion requires close coordination between productive sectors and local communities. DEPANA and the Brown Bear Foundation promote actions to improve coexistence, focusing on farmers, hunters, wildlife photographers, and tour operators.
Spring is a delicate time: the mating season of males coincides with the presence of small cubs, increasing the risk of human encounters. In areas like Vall d’Aran, up to 50 people were detected observing bears simultaneously, putting their well-being at risk and altering their behavior.
To reduce the impact, conservation organizations propose regulating access to the most sensitive areas during May and June. They also aim to curb the unauthorized use of trap cameras, a growing practice that disturbs wildlife.
## In search of preventive measures
Despite some isolated incidents, such as livestock attacks, authorities are working on preventive measures: electric fences, herd grouping, guard dogs, and economic compensations. These tools have proven to be effective when applied correctly.
Collaboration with the Conselh Generau d’Aran is ongoing, but a broader commitment is needed to sustain the progress made. Strengthening environmental education and tourism planning are key steps towards harmonious coexistence.
## Situation of the brown bear in Spain
In Spain, the brown bear (Ursus arctos) inhabits two main nuclei: the Cantabrian mountain range and the Pyrenees. Although still classified as “endangered,” populations show signs of recovery after decades of protection.
In the Pyrenees, current bears mostly come from a reintroduction program initiated in the 90s, with specimens brought from Slovenia. This action helped strengthen an almost extinct population.
Nationally, the presence of bears is seen as a symbol of conservation success. Their return to historic habitats is also a sign of improvement in environmental quality. However, their future depends on the balance between conservation and human development.
The key lies in cooperation between administrations, local communities, and environmental entities. If the effort is maintained, the brown bear will be able to consolidate its return and continue to be a living emblem of Iberian nature.
