Hualien Black Bear Tragedy: Justified Action or Conservation Conflict?

FANCA Defends Shooting of Formosan Black Bear, Citing Urgency and Public Safety Concerns

Taipei, April 23 – The Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency (FANCA) has stated that the shooting of a Formosan black bear by a conservationist in Hualien was a "regrettable but necessary action." This statement follows the incident that has sparked debate regarding wildlife management and conservation efforts in Taiwan.

FANCA explained that the use of a nonlethal tranquilizer would have necessitated the presence and supervision of licensed veterinarians. Considering the immediacy of the situation, patrol members resorted to lethal force, citing self-defense as the primary reason for their decision on Monday evening.

The agency detailed that the bear had reportedly been preying on domestic animals, specifically four dogs and poultry, over a period of ten days in Zhuoxi Village. Furthermore, the bear's most recent appearance was in close proximity to Zhongzheng Village (Sinkan), causing considerable alarm among residents.

FANCA emphasized the government's responsibility to safeguard residents in mountainous regions from potential animal threats, asserting that maintaining public trust is crucial for sustaining future conservation initiatives.

The agency, under Taiwan's Ministry of Agriculture (MOA), also noted an increase in Formosan black bear sightings in lowland and settlement areas. Sightings at altitudes below 1,200 meters have notably increased in the last five years, suggesting a rise in the bear population.

According to FANCA, the increased sightings indicate a significant population growth in the past two decades, suggesting the species is no longer on the brink of extinction. Despite this, the Formosan black bear remains listed as "endangered" under the Wildlife Conservation Act, meaning its population is considered to be "at or below a critical level so that their survival is in jeopardy."