Uttarakhand is witnessing a worrying increase in bear attacks, with experts linking the trend to declining food availability in forest areas. According to forest department data, 2081 bear attacks have been recorded in the last 25 years, leaving 2010 people injured and 71 dead across the state.
Sloth bears are commonly found in the Terai region, while Himalayan black bears inhabit the hill districts. Recent months have seen a surge in attacks, particularly in high-altitude areas. Data shows that 53 people were injured in bear attacks in 2023, 65 in 2024, and 66 people have already been injured till 17 November 2025. In 2024 and 2025, the attacks also resulted in three and six deaths respectively.
Wildlife experts say bears are venturing closer to human settlements in search of food, which is becoming scarce in forests. Former Chief Wildlife Warden Shrikant Chandola said that the shortage of natural food sources has disrupted the bears’ hibernation cycle, compelling them to move towards populated areas.
Researchers also point out that thick bushes around houses often provide hiding spots for bears. Officials have identified Rudraprayag, Bageshwar, Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, Bageshwar Forest Division and Pithoragarh as high-risk zones, where teams have been instructed to maintain extra vigilance.
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Experts advise residents to avoid throwing waste near homes, as bears are frequently drawn by food scraps. They also recommend that people move in groups when entering forest areas to minimise the risk of attacks.
