Belarus' Ministry of Forestry reveals projected bear fatalities count
In the vast hunting grounds of Belarus, the 2025 bear hunting season marked a significant milestone as it was the first time in years that the activity was permitted. The hunting season, which opened on 1st July and will continue until 31st December, is subject to strict control, with a specific number of bears allowed to be hunted.
According to the Belarusian Public Association of Hunters, 47 bears could be hunted in 2025. By mid-September, slightly over 10 bears had been hunted this season. The exact number for the entire season remains to be seen.
The cost of participating in bear hunts varies depending on the method. In auctions, the initial cost can increase by 10% with each step, as seen from past experiences. The starting sum in these auctions is Br2000. For those who prefer not to participate in auctions, the minimum permit cost for citizens of other countries is Br1000, while Belarusian and Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) citizens pay Br500. Each hunter must also pay at least Br5 for a ticket in addition to the permit cost.
In 2025, an auction hunt for brown bears was organized by a hunting association or trophy hunting organization, although the specific name is not publicly known. One such auction saw a hunter pay at least Br10,000. The cost-related information for other auctions or for hunting deer, elk, and roe deer was not provided.
The population of these animals in Belarus has seen a significant increase over the years. As of now, there are approximately 50,000 deer, 50,000 elk, and 130,000 roe deer in Belarus. The number of elk hunted annually has increased significantly, from 27 in 1994 to around 9,000 today. The cost-related information for hunting these species was not provided in the current paragraph.
It's worth noting that only those with more than three years of hunting experience can participate in the 2025 season from 1st July to 31st December. This requirement aims to ensure a fair and safe hunting environment for all participants.
The hunting of bears in Belarus continues to be a topic of discussion, with opinions divided on its impact on the bear population and the broader ecosystem. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to observe the outcomes and implications of this hunting season.
