Himalayan bears shed gentle image, turn deadly predators in U'khand

UTTARAKHAND'S hills are grappling with an alarming threat—bears. Traditionally perceived as omnivores, they are exhibiting unprecedented aggression. This behavioral shift has sparked fear among residents and wildlife officials.

- NARENDRA SETHI @Dehradun

Hot on the heels of reports of bear terror in Satpuli, Pauri district, a harrowing incident emerged from Rudraprayag, where two women were mauled. While bear encounters are not new in the mountains of Uttarakhand, their escalating intensity and frequency are.

The Forest Department officials said, "On-site evidence and the circumstances of the attacks suggest the bear has abandoned its inherent nature, transforming into a ferocious, fully carnivorous predator."