Introduction
Human-bear conflict (HBC) is an international problem involving all eight species of bears across much of Europe, Asia, North America, and the South American Andes. In almost all countries where bears occur, they are either legally hunted or are protected by national laws and/or international agreements. The status of bear populations in these countries varies widely, primarily as a result of local habitat conditions.
Conflicts between bears and people can result in economic losses, human injuries and fatalities, and consequent retributions against bears. Programs that effectively address HBC can reduce the economic burden of bear conservation efforts on affected people, improve bear welfare, and create a positive framework for human-bear coexistence.
This document was designed to provide information for decision-makers in government and specialized non-governmental organizations (NGO) to improve their understanding and management of HBC. HBC situations are complex and each situation requires careful analysis and an interdisciplinary, science-based approach that involves affected peoples. The goal here is to provide a general outline of fundamental concepts and ideas associated with HBC, which can be investigated more thoroughly to deal with specific situations.
This document was prepared by wildlife experts and social scientists with considerable experience on HBC issues. It stemmed from a growing awareness that while bear populations are declining in many areas of the world, conflicts between bears and people are increasing. The expertise to mitigate these conflicts is, in general, available, but it requires a sharing of knowledge, willingness to act, and some sacrifice by governments and affected people in terms of funding solutions and/or altering customary behaviours.
