Brown bear (Ursus arctos) is the largest predator inhabiting the territory of Ukraine and the only representative of the bear family in the country's fauna. This species was once widely distributed throughout the state, occupying forest and partially steppe zones. Today, its range has catastrophically decreased, and the species is listed in the Red Book of Ukraine with the conservation status \"extinct.\" Habitat and Population At present, the main population of the brown bear in Ukraine is concentrated in the Carpathian region. It is here that the overwhelming majority of individuals live — estimates range from 300 to 350 animals. The highest concentration of bears is observed in the Zakarpattia and Ivano-Frankivsk oblasts, where up to 200 individuals are counted. Smaller populations are preserved in the Lviv and Chernivtsi oblasts. Bears are much rarer — in isolated cases — in the Polesie, particularly in the Kyiv and Sumy oblasts. In 2025, camera traps at the Chernobyl Nature Reserve recorded an adult brown bear, indicating the gradual restoration of biodiversity in this exclusion zone. History of Population Decline The situation with the brown bear in Ukraine is a serious cause for concern among ecologists and conservation organizations. Over the past 50 years, the population of the species has decreased by approximately four times — from around 1300 individuals to the current 300–350. The main reasons for such catastrophic population decline are: Areal fragmentation — active road construction, the expansion of populated areas, and deforestation divide natural territories into isolated sections, preventing the free movement of animals. Poaching — illegal shooting remains a serious threat, especially in border areas. Destruction of the food base — intensive forest exploitation and recreational load deprive bears of natural food sources. Disturbance factor — the active presence of humans in fores ... Read more