Feeding Bears to Be Punished with Major Fines in Romania
The Romanian government has adopted an emergency ordinance introducing significant fines for feeding wild bears, Environment Minister Diana Buzoianu announced on Thursday, November 6. The move seeks to reduce human–bear interactions and discourage behaviors that attract wildlife into cities and villages.
Key Provisions of the Ordinance
- Feeding wild bears is now explicitly defined and prohibited.
- The law introduces the concept of a "habituated bear," referring to animals accustomed to human presence due to food incentives.
- Fines range from RON 10,000 to RON 30,000 (around EUR 2,000–6,000).
New Measures for Emergency Response
The ordinance also updates the procedures for responding to bear–human encounters in populated areas. Local emergency committees will have the authority to act immediately, even without following the usual gradual protocol.
“Local committees will be allowed to decide on immediate actions such as driving the bear away, relocation, or shooting if necessary,” explained Environment Minister Diana Buzoianu.
Emergency committees can now meet electronically, making swift decisions even when members are not present at the scene. Police officers may temporarily replace the Gendarmerie to accelerate response efforts.
Author’s Summary
The Romanian government introduces strict penalties and faster response mechanisms to deter citizens from feeding wild bears and to improve management of wildlife incidents near urban areas.