In the serene mountains of Asturias, northern Spain, efforts to conserve the Cantabrian brown bear have led to a remarkable revival of the species once teetering on the brink of extinction. The bear population, which had dwindled to approximately 60 individuals by the late 1980s, is now believed to exceed 500, according to nature guide Luis Frechilla. These bears, still classified as endangered until their numbers reach 1,000, are nevertheless now more easily observable in the Somiedo Natural Park, established in 1988 as one of Spain’s first protected areas.
Witnessing Wildlife
During a bear-spotting excursion, Frechilla quickly identifies a juvenile bear through his scope in a mountainous pasture—a testament to improved visibility thanks to recent conservation successes. Another excited onlooker admires the bear’s features through binoculars, describing the distant view as an energising experience.
Amidst the rugged landscape, the setting sun gives way to the region’s charming dusk, with cowbells echoing through the valley. Though Asturias’ mountain weather can be harsh, even summer snow is not uncommon. The traditional local cuisine reflects this hearty climate, featuring dishes like fabada and cachopo, enjoyed at the village inn, Casa Miño.
Conservation Efforts and Challenges
The Cantabrian bears emerge from hibernation in early spring, with limited food until summer provides an abundance of berries and acorns. Alicia Madrid from the Fundación Oso Pardo explains that these bears are adapted to their challenging environment, though they are smaller than their American grizzly counterparts due to the climbing demands of the terrain.
Madrid credits the successful revival of bear populations to key initiatives such as the creation of ecological corridors and a hunting ban enacted in 1973. The conservation strategy aims to increase genetic diversity by encouraging interbreeding between isolated groups of bears.
Tourism and Sustainability
Addressing concerns about the impact of tourism, Frechilla articulates that managed wildlife tourism can be a sustainable alternative to hunting, providing employment opportunities for locals. Regulations in Somiedo Natural Park restrict access to parts of the bears’ habitat, only allowing guided tours with licensed personnel, thus minimising human interference in the bears’ lives.
Locals and tourists alike are captivated by the bears, as demonstrated one evening near Saliencia when spectators observe a large male bear up close. Despite some speculation about potential fights over territory, Frechilla reassures the crowd that such conflicts are rare outside of mating season.
The Future of Cantabrian Bears
While the bears’ numbers are growing, they still face survival challenges. Only a third of juveniles typically survive after their first year. Observers at La Peral witness a poignant scene as a mother bear encourages her cubs up a steep slope. As darkness falls, the bears emerge as silhouettes against the sky, a symbol of the enduring challenges of wildlife conservation.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.