Kashmir is witnessing an alarming spike in bear sightings and captures this November, with around 50 bears trapped, tranquilised, or safely guided back to the wild across various regions marking one of the highest monthly counts in recent years.
The latest series of encounters began on November 23, when a black bear descended from the Kotihar forests into Andoo–Shangus in Anantnag, mauling a man and a woman. On the same morning, another bear was spotted nearly 15 km away in Soaf village. Wildlife teams swiftly installed cameras and trap cages, capturing both animals the next day.
But the sightings kept escalating. In the following days, bears were reported across south, north, and central Kashmir, prompting continuous rescue efforts.
South Kashmir: Highest Activity
Anantnag–Kulgam Wildlife Range recorded the most captures this month.
Range Warden Sajad Bhat confirmed 14 bears rescued and released — 10 from Brengi–Kokernag and four from Lidder.
In Shopian–Pulwama, Wildlife Warden Suhail Wagay said around eight black and brown bears were trapped or captured.
North Kashmir: Major Spike
In Kupwara, Bandipora, and Baramulla, officials confirmed 18 bears were captured or tranquilised and released in November alone.
Central Kashmir
Srinagar, Ganderbal, and Khrew recorded over six black bear captures, while six more were given safe passage into forests.
In Budgam, only one bear was captured, though several sightings were reported from higher terrains.
Some Bears Still Roaming
A black bear continues to roam in Aaligund near Awantipora, while another has been moving across Srinagar for over a week — spotted at KU Girls Hostel, Habbak, Saderbal, Hazratbal, SKIMS Soura, and even walking through Nigeen Lake.
Human Toll Rising
The conflict is taking a growing human toll.
- 2024–25: 17 deaths, 214 injuries — the highest in recent years.
- 2025–26 (so far): 4 deaths, 77 injuries already reported.
Wildlife officials say shrinking habitats, abundant food waste, and rapid urban expansion are driving bears into human settlements more frequently than before.
Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant, avoid venturing into forest-edge areas at dawn and dusk, and report sightings immediately to wildlife control rooms.
