Endangered brown bear found shot dead in Soran

ERBIL — An endangered brown bear was discovered shot dead in the Balakayati area within the Soran independent administration, according to local environmental officials. The bear was found with visible bullet wounds, sparking an investigation by regional authorities.

Hazhar Mahir, head of the Soran environmental department, detailed the discovery to 964Media. “The bear’s body was found in Przha in the Balakayati area, and it had been shot. The bullet marks are visible on the body,” Mahir said. He further explained the ongoing efforts to determine responsibility: “We still don’t know who is responsible. We are investigating the matter in cooperation with the district governorate and local police.”

The environmental department revealed that the bear was likely killed over a week ago, but the incident was only reported to authorities last Thursday. Mahir noted, “The cold weather helped preserve the body.” He also mentioned the logistical challenges faced by the recovery team: “The area is remote and difficult to access by car, but we are trying to find a suitable way to retrieve the bear’s body.”

The region where the bear was found is known for its natural beauty and is a popular destination for visitors, especially in the summer, due to its cool weather and scenic landscapes. Despite human activity, it has been a habitat for the brown bear, a species repeatedly sighted in the area.

In a move to honor the deceased animal, the Soran Environmental Department plans to preserve and display the bear’s body. “The Soran Environmental Department has decided to preserve and mummify the brown bear’s body and place it at one of the prominent entrances to Balakayati,” Mahir stated.

This incident comes after the release of six domesticated brown bears on Mount Gara in Duhok province in February 2021 by the Kurdish American Cooperation Organization. These bears, previously kept as pets in various cities across Iraq, were reintroduced into the wild, which drew mixed reactions concerning their potential adaptability.

Brown bears are large mammals belonging to the family Ursidae and are found across northern Eurasia and North America. While they are prevalent in regions like Turkey, Syria, and Iran, their populations in these areas are smaller and more fragmented. This species is known for its robust build, large paws, and distinctive shoulder hump, which is primarily muscular.