A bear has appeared in rural and mountainous areas of Oreokastro, a municipality in the regional unit of Thessaloniki, northern Greece, local authorities said in a press release on Friday.
The animal was seen in Liti and Melissochori, the municipality said. “The appearance of a bear near residential areas may be related to the animal’s search for food or its movement,” it said and urged residents to be aware of their surroundings if they venture into these areas and avoid leaving food outside their homes.
The municipality said it is working with the Forestry Office and environmental agencies to monitor the situation and ensure the safety of citizens and the protection of the animal.
Experts advise anyone running into the bear to keep quiet, retreat from the area and alert authorities immediately.
Wildlife sightings near residential areas have been increasing over the years with scientists citing the loss of habitat due to wildfires, the abandonment of the countryside and decline of primary production, and a loss of food resources.