The Lithuanian Hunters and Fishermen's Association (LMŽD) released a video on Wednesday that clearly shows a brown bear leaving the territory of Vilnius city. This is the first concrete evidence confirming that the animal has left the capital.
The footage, recorded in one of the city's northwestern areas, shows the bear calmly crossing a wooded area, moving away from residential areas towards deeper forest areas. The LMŽD says the footage was taken on Tuesday.
The hunters emphasize that the bear had been wandering around the city for three days, was experiencing severe stress, and therefore its health and behavioral status remain unknown. Therefore, together with specialists, they urge environmental protection authorities not to delay and continue an active search - using drones and surveillance cameras.
Meanwhile, Vilnius Municipality also got involved in the action – the city mayor Valdas Benkunskas initiated the use of thermal imaging drones in the northern regions where the animal's last movement was recorded.
Residents are urged to remain cautious, as a bear is not a domestic cat, but a predator that can react unpredictably, especially if frightened or injured. If a bear or its tracks are spotted, residents should immediately call the emergency number 112.
