There may be seven to ten bears left in the French Pyrenees. It is planned to enlarge this population with bears from elsewhere in Europe. Although the bears in Spain and Scandinavia are genetically closer to the French bears, the rarity of Spanish bears and transport difficulties from Scandinavia have led France to request three or four bears from Slovenia. In 1990, the French Government unilaterally prohibited hunting in 6,500 hectares of the Pyrenees and closed roads to important habitat, causing some conflict with local residents. A recovery plan has been created for the Brown Bear population of the Italian Alps.
Surveys indicate that less than five bears remain within the area.
Computer simulations suggest that suitable habitat is available to maintain a viable population of 40 to 60 bears in the western part of Trentino. Experts suggest development of specific management plans for protected areas and improvement of education and compensation programs. WWF is undertaking a number of projects to protect brown bear habitats within European Russia, the largest national population of brown bears. All Rights Reserved. Inc. All Rights Reserved.