The Tallinn District Court has temporarily prohibited the shooting of problematic brown bears, the permits for which had previously been partially restored by the lower court. The restriction will remain in effect until the private complaint from the non-profit organization "Large Predators of Estonia" is considered. Thus, hunting of animals covered by the disputed special permits is once again halted. The Environmental Department believes that the issuance of special permits was justified. According to Tanel Tüürn, head of the hunting and aquatic bioresources department, such measures are necessary in cases where bears pose a threat to humans or repeatedly cause damage. According to the agency, the population of brown bears in Estonia has been increasing since 2013 and is currently estimated at around 1,100 individuals. At the same time, there are more frequent cases of animals approaching populated areas and conflicts with humans. This is why hunting regulations were changed this spring. Since April, the seasonal hunting of bears has been canceled, and shooting is only possible with a special permit from the Environmental Department. Such permits can be issued throughout the year, but only after an individual assessment of each case. It is important to note that this is not about mass regulation of the bear population. Special permits are issued only to prevent repeated damage or to eliminate threats to human safety. This autumn, the department allowed the shooting of 30 problematic bears. Before the current court ruling, hunters managed to take 10 animals. The agency disagrees with the court's decision and intends to seek the preservation of the special permits. At the same time, the department emphasizes that the current ruling does not preclude the possibility of issuing new permits in the future if there are sufficient grounds for this. If an animal poses an immediate danger to people or traffic, it is necessary to call the emergency number 112.
