Romania Imposes Heavy Fines for Feeding Wild Bears
The Romanian government has adopted an emergency ordinance introducing substantial fines for people who feed wild bears. The announcement was made by Environment Minister Diana Buzoianu on Thursday, November 6.
“The legislation defines key concepts such as ‘feeding of bears’ and ‘habituated bear,’ aiming to reduce human actions that attract wildlife into communities,” reported Agerpres.
The penalties will range from RON 10,000 to RON 30,000, equivalent to roughly EUR 2,000 to 6,000. According to Buzoianu, the ordinance also establishes new intervention procedures for bear–human encounters in towns and cities.
Under the new rules, local emergency committees will be able to take direct action, including scaring the animal away, relocating it, or even shooting it if necessary — without following the usual step-by-step sequence. Meetings of these committees can also take place online, ensuring swift decision-making even when members cannot gather in person.
Buzoianu added that local police may participate in these committees instead of the Gendarmerie when required, allowing for faster responses in emergency situations.
Author's Summary
Romania’s new ordinance penalizes feeding wild bears with steep fines and authorizes quicker actions during bear–human conflicts to improve public safety.