Brown bear spotted roaming Vilnius outskirts, authorities issue safety guidelines

A brown bear was seen wandering the northern outskirts of Vilnius on Tuesday evening, with environmental authorities confirming the sighting and urging residents to follow safety precautions if they encounter the animal.

Footage shared on social media showed the bear moving along Tarandė Street in the capital’s peripheral districts. The sighting was later verified by the Environmental Protection Department (AAD) and Deividas Staponkus, a communications advisor for the Lithuanian Hunters and Fishermen Association.

In a public advisory, the AAD reminded residents that brown bears are rare but potentially dangerous visitors to urban areas. Authorities recommend keeping a safe distance, avoiding any attempt to approach, photograph, or provoke the animal. If the bear stands on its hind legs, it is likely assessing its surroundings rather than preparing to attack.

Should the bear approach, people are advised to remain calm, stand upright, raise their arms to appear larger, and avoid shouting, sudden movements, or running. Groups should stay together. Any sightings must be reported immediately to emergency services by dialling 112.

Wild animals in cities are becoming more common due to urban expansion into natural habitats, the AAD noted. While foxes, deer, and boars occasionally enter urban areas in search of food, feeding them can eliminate their natural caution and expose them to risks like traffic or domestic pets. The department stressed that wild animals should never be fed, even in warmer months, as it can harm their health and behaviour.

Residents who encounter a wild animal in their yard or a park should observe it from a distance and avoid interference. Healthy animals will typically return to their natural habitat on their own. Injured or unusually behaving animals, as well as roadkill, should be reported to emergency services. Only trained specialists should handle wildlife to prevent stress or injury to the animals.

For further guidance, the AAD provides a reference sheet on encountering wild animals and offers consultations via phone at +370 700 02022 or email at [email protected].