Authorities in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Russia, have initiated night patrols to address an increasing number of bears wandering into the city. Acting Mayor Yevgeny Belyayev stated that the safety of residents living alongside wildlife is a top priority.
Seven patrol groups have been formed to respond to reports of bear encounters, with one group using a thermal imaging drone for night surveillance. The city, located on the Kamchatka peninsula, has been on high alert for potential bear incursions since Friday.
This season alone, over 450 bear sightings have been reported, resulting in the death of 30 bears in the past week. Tragically, a fatal bear attack claimed the life of a 38-year-old fisherman. Kamchatka is home to approximately 24,500 bears.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Due to challenges faced, The Moscow Times needs support to continue providing accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia. The organization’s work has been criminalized and labeled as “undesirable” and “foreign agent,” threatening independent journalism.
Readers can help by supporting The Moscow Times with a small monthly contribution starting from $2. Every contribution defends open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Stand with us to uphold the value of free press.