BUCHAREST, Dec. 12 (Xinhua) -- Romania has the largest brown bear population in Europe, with an estimated 10,657 to 12,787 animals, according to new national data unveiled Friday in the central city of Brasov by Environment Minister Diana Buzoianu.
The figures come from the country's most extensive bear monitoring project to date.
The three-year initiative, involving 800 specialists and the collection of approximately 24,000 samples nationwide, was described by officials as the largest study of its kind ever carried out for the species.
Beyond population estimates, the research introduces Romania's first national zoning system for brown bear management, identifying areas ranging from strictly protected habitats to regions facing heightened human-wildlife conflict risks.
Buzoianu emphasized that the findings will help authorities balance conservation with public safety.
"This study is a responsible, balanced management tool that allows us to protect people, prevent conflicts, and conserve a species vital to Romania," Buzoianu said.
The new zoning framework divides the country into four categories: key conservation zones, conflict-risk zones, sustainable management areas, and marginal zones.
Classifications were determined using genetic analysis, habitat mapping, assessments of agricultural and tourism impacts, emergency call records, and documented damage from bear encounters.
Officials said the system will allow for differentiated management measures, better prevention strategies, and more targeted interventions where needed.
