ASTURIAS – Following a bear attack on a 75-year-old woman in Cangas del Narcea, Asturias, last Sunday, the mayor of this municipality warns of the changing behaviour of bears, making them an increasing threat to humans.
The Guardia Civil is still looking for the bear that attacked a woman last weekend. The lady was seriously injured in the process. Relatives who were with her were able to prevent the bear from dragging the woman. The regional authorities want to find out if the bear is male or female. And furthermore if he or she is exhibiting aggressive behavior.
Bears are getting closer to populated areas
Cangas del Narcea Mayor José Víctor Rodríguez said in this case the bear will be removed from its natural environment. According to Rodríguez, it is still unclear why the bear attacked the woman. Moreover, it is the first time in 30 years that someone has been attacked by a wild bear in Asturias. However, while it is still an exceptional event, the mayor emphasised that wildlife is moving closer to inhabited areas. And therefore presents an increasing risk to human safety. According to the regional ministry of Rural Areas, the growing bear population also poses an increasing threat to humans.
Bear attack
The woman who was attacked by the bear was on her routine evening walk with some of her relatives. However, as she was walking a little slower than the rest, she was alone at the time of the attack. As a result, the bear saw its chance and hit her in the face with its claws and drag her several metres. Family members then chased the bear away with loud screams and thus prevented it from getting worse. The woman suffered serious facial injuries and a broken hip in the attack, but is not in a life-threatening condition.
