In the Mont Valier nature reserve, where the incident took place, restoring the bear population has been a prolonged effort. The species had dwindled significantly, but recent efforts, including the reintroduction of bears from Slovenia, have helped increase their numbers to roughly 96 by 2024. The court's decision is seen by environmental groups as a step towards safeguarding this vulnerable species.
French Hunter Sentenced for Endangered Bear Killing
French Hunter Sentenced for Endangered Bear Killing
An elderly hunter receives a suspended sentence for killing a protected bear during a hunting accident in the Pyrenees.
An 81-year-old French hunter has been handed a four-month suspended prison sentence and a fine for killing an endangered brown bear while on a boar hunt in the Pyrenees in 2021. He claimed self-defense as the bear attacked him, leading to a chaotic confrontation. The bear, known as Caramelles, now resides as a taxidermied exhibit at the Toulouse Natural History Museum. Additionally, 15 other hunters involved received fines totaling over €60,000 for their role in the incident. The court heard that the hunters were in a restricted area, however, defense lawyers argued against the clarity of the boundaries. The ruling has ignited discussions on wildlife protection and hunting regulations, with local conservation advocates hopeful for increased awareness among hunters.
