Andorra Rangers Confirm Three Young Male Bears in Spring Incursion Zones

Andorra's rangers have confirmed the presence of three young male bears in the country this spring, coinciding with the seasonal thaw and the end of their hibernation period. The animals were detected in areas near the borders with neighbouring countries, through a combination of camera traps placed at strategic points and other indicators such as tracks and direct observations.

Environment Minister Guillem Casal stated that the bears have appeared in the usual incursion zones: in the north from Arcalís to Coma valley and Incles valley in Canillo, and in the south from Coll de la Gallina and Francolí in Sant Julià de Lòria to Setúria valley in La Massana. He emphasised that the situation remains under control, describing it as a normal seasonal pattern when bears are most frequently spotted. No incidents have been reported since last year's encounter between a bear and a dog in Comapedrosa park.

The images, released by the rangers on social media, show the bears rubbing against trees at night in snowy areas. These sites are equipped with systematic camera traps and wire snares that collect hair samples for genetic analysis. Confirmation of whether these are among the eight bears identified in Andorra last year—seven of them males undertaking long journeys during their mating season—awaits results from Spain and France. Last year, the Pyrenees brown bear population stood at 108 individuals, including five to seven cubs, with Andorran sightings overlapping Catalan and French Pyrenees park territories.

Casal advised mountain skiers to avoid following tracks and to alert rangers instead. In case of encountering a bear, people should move away calmly without disturbing it, keeping dogs leashed to prevent confrontations. Rangers urge the public to report any signs by calling 112 and to check their website for behavioural guidelines to promote respectful coexistence with wildlife.

During the Council of Ministers press conference, Casal also announced €30,000 in subsidies to prevent damage to livestock and crops from protected species.