Authorities and environmental organizations have raised the alarm in Western Macedonia after three brown bears were found dead within a short period of time in incidents believed to involve human actions.
The cases, reported in the areas of Florina and Kozani, have sparked investigations by local authorities and wildlife protection groups, as the brown bear is a protected species in Greece and its killing is considered a serious criminal offense.
Adult bear found dead near highway
The first incident involved an adult male bear, around eight years old and weighing approximately 170 kilograms, which was found dead on the Florina–Kozani section of the Egnatia Odos highway.
According to reports, the bear had suffered three gunshot wounds — one to the neck and two to the back. Investigators believe the animal had entered a corn field in search of food before being shot by an unknown person.
Despite its injuries, the bear managed to move several meters toward the highway, leaving blood traces behind. When traffic police arrived, the animal was still alive but died shortly afterward.
Members of the emergency response team from the wildlife organization “Arcturos” examined the scene and transferred the bear to the organization’s facilities, where a veterinary examination is expected to be carried out.
Second bear death linked to suspected poisoning
A second case was recorded in a forest area of Florina, where a two-year-old female bear was found dead.
Initial findings indicate that the young bear may have died after consuming poisoned bait, commonly referred to as a “poison trap,” though toxicology tests are expected to confirm the cause of death.
Third bear found dead in Kozani area
The third incident occurred in Pylori, in the municipality of Voio, Kozani, where a 2.5-year-old male bear was discovered dead.
According to preliminary evidence and the findings reported by environmental organization “Kallisto,” the animal had been shot three times in the head. Wildlife specialists, forest authorities and a public veterinarian examined the site, and the bear was later buried under the responsibility of the relevant services.
The case was brought to the attention of authorities by a local resident. According to the head of the Tsotili Forest Service, Theodoros Palamas, the report came from a livestock farmer who heard gunshots and notified the police.
Calls for protection of wildlife
The environmental organization “Kallisto” stressed that the brown bear is strictly protected in Greece and urged citizens to immediately inform authorities if bears are spotted near residential areas.
The organization also called for actions that protect both people and wildlife, warning against practices that could endanger animals.
