Brown Bear Sightings Surge in Vilnius: Experts Investigate Altered Migration Patterns

Vilnius, Lithuania is experiencing an unusual increase in brown bear sightings, alarming residents. Experts say that nearly as many bears have been spotted in the first five months of 2025 as during the entirety of 2024. The bears are believed to be crossing the border from Belarus, altering their usual migration patterns. "This is a significant change," states an expert from the Lithuanian Wildlife Agency, "and we are working to understand the reasons behind this shift and mitigate any potential risks." One resident, whose security footage is featured in the viral video shared by Azteca Noticias, commented on the unexpected encounters. "It's unsettling to see a bear so close to your home," they shared. The increased bear activity highlights the delicate balance between human development and wildlife habitats, necessitating a proactive approach to ensure both human safety and bear conservation.