A young brown bear was killed after being struck by a vehicle on a major highway in northern Greece, renewing concerns over the growing number of wildlife collisions in the region.

The accident occurred on the Siatista–Krystallopigi section of the Egnatia motorway in Western Macedonia. According to the environmental organization Callisto, the bear cub — estimated to be around 1.5 years old — died after being hit by a passing car late Wednesday night.

The organization’s emergency response team was alerted to the incident by staff from the motorway management company.

Bears Searching for Food After Hibernation

In a statement, Callisto explained that this period of the year is particularly critical for brown bears, which are actively searching for food after emerging from winter hibernation.

Because of food-related stress following hibernation, bears often travel long distances and may approach residential areas where food sources are easier to find.

Environmental experts warned that wildlife-related traffic accidents have been a long-standing problem in Western Macedonia, leading to the deaths of bears and other wild animals over several decades.

Drivers Urged to Exercise Caution

The organization called on drivers traveling through areas with rich biodiversity and significant wildlife presence to reduce speed and remain especially cautious during spring and summer, when animal movement increases.

Callisto also issued safety advice for motorists who encounter a bear on the road.

“If we encounter a bear while inside a vehicle, we should remain in the car,” the organization said. “We should not follow the bear if it continues walking or running along the road, and we should avoid increasing speed.”

Callisto said it has been working with authorities and partner organizations through several environmental initiatives aimed at reducing vehicle collisions with wildlife in the wider region.