Local authorities in the northern Italian Alps made the controversial decision to kill a mother bear known as KJ1, deemed dangerous after attacking a French tourist in July. Despite protests from animal rights groups and an Italian government minister, the bear was shot due to several encounters with humans, including the recent attack on the hiker.
Controversy and Criticism
The move to kill the bear sparked outrage from environmentalists and concerns for her three cubs, who are now left vulnerable. Italy’s environment minister criticized the decision, suggesting sterilization as an alternative. The debate over the repopulation of bears in the Alps has raised questions about coexistence with humans in the densely populated region.
25-Year Repopulation Project
This incident is the latest in a series of conflicts between humans and bears in Trento, with previous cases leading to legal challenges and relocation efforts. The ongoing struggle highlights the challenges of reintroducing bears to the region and balancing conservation efforts with public safety concerns.