With the largest population in Europe (outside of Russia), Romania is arguably the best place on the continent to observe these majestic giants in their natural habitat. But the bear is more than just a wild animal in our country; it is a symbol of power, a central figure in folklore, and a surviving spirit of the ancient Dacian wilderness.
A large wild Brown Bear crossing a mountain stream in the Carpathian forests of Romania.
Roaming the dense forests of the Carpathian arc, the Romanian brown bear is an impressive sight. A mature male can weigh up to 350-400 kg, commanding respect with every step. Despite their size, they are incredibly agile—able to run at speeds of up to 50 km/h and climb trees with surprising ease.
While they are classified as carnivores, they are actually opportunistic omnivores. Their diet changes with the seasons, ranging from berries, acorns, and roots to insects and small mammals.
Legends and Folklore: Who is "Moș Martin"?
The connection between the Romanian people and the bear goes back thousands of years. In local folklore, the bear is often treated with a mix of fear and deep respect.
1. The Name "Moș Martin" In traditional villages, people were often afraid to say the word "urs" (bear) aloud in the forest, fearing that naming the beast would summon it. Instead, they used the respectful nickname "Moș Martin" (Old Man Martin), attributing human qualities to him. He is seen as a wise, old figure of the woods—grumpy but fair.
2. The Bear Dance (Jocul Ursului) If you visit Romania around New Year’s Eve, you might witness a spectacular tradition: The Dance of the Bear. Men dress in furs adorned with red tassels and dance to the rhythm of drums. This ancient ritual is not just for show. It symbolizes the death and rebirth of nature. The bear defeats winter, chases away evil spirits, and brings fertility and strength to the village for the coming year.
3. The Weather Forecaster According to Romanian superstition, the bear predicts the end of winter. On February 2nd (Stretenie), the bear is said to wake up and come out of his den.
A mother brown bear standing in a green forest with her two cute cubs playing on a fallen tree trunk in Romania.
Romania offers unique opportunities for wildlife photography. While bears can sometimes be seen crossing the famous Transfăgărășan road (Click HERE to see more), we strongly encourage responsible tourism.
- In the Wild: Specialized observatories in Harghita or Brașov counties offer safe, guided tours.
- Sanctuaries: The Libearty Bear Sanctuary in Zărnești is the largest of its kind in the world, home to over 100 rescued bears living in a large, forested enclosure.
Safety FirstRemember: A fed bear is a dead bear. Never feed wild animals. It habituates them to humans, leading to dangerous conflicts. Keep your distance and respect their territory.
A video wich present The Brown Bear (Ursul Brun) - please activate subtitles in the player:
A video wich present Mother brown bear and babies bear on Transfăgărășan road:
Frequently Asked Questions about Romanian Brown Bears:
Q: Is it safe to hike in Romania given the large bear population?
A: Yes, it is safe as long as you follow standard safety rules. Most bears avoid human contact. Always stay on marked trails, hike in groups, make noise (talk loudly) to alert animals of your presence, and carry bear spray for emergencies.
Q: Can I feed the bears if I see them by the roadside?
A: Absolutely NOT. Feeding bears is illegal and extremely dangerous. It causes them to associate humans with food, leading to aggressive behavior. Remember: "A fed bear is a dead bear" because habituated bears often have to be relocated or put down.
Q: Where is the best place to see bears safely?
A: We recommend booking a tour at a specialized bear hide (observatory) in counties like Harghita, Brașov (Click HERE to see more), or Covasna. For a guaranteed and ethical experience, visit the Libearty Bear Sanctuary in Zărnești.
Q: When is the best time for bear watching?
A: The best season is from April to October. During late autumn and winter, bears are generally less active or in hibernation, although some may remain active during mild winters.
