Nantou:The Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency's Nantou Branch has issued a safety warning for hikers following the sighting of two Formosan black bears near the Nenggao Cross-Ridge Trail in Nantou County.
According to Focus Taiwan, the sighting was reported on Tuesday after hikers observed the bears near the 3.3- to 3.4-kilometer section of the trail on Monday afternoon. The hikers provided video footage of the bears, prompting the agency to release a news statement.
The agency has implemented several preventive measures, including heightened monitoring of bear activity, raising public awareness about bear protection, and advising visitors to remain vigilant. Hikers are reminded to store food and garbage properly to avoid attracting bears.
The trail's surrounding area is a natural habitat for Formosan black bears. To minimize the risk of encounters, the agency advises visitors to avoid hiking alone and to carry bear bells, bear spray, or other noise-making devices. In the event of a bear encounter, it is recommended to stay calm, maintain a safe distance, and refrain from approaching or photographing the animal.
For reporting bear sightings, bears entering populated areas, or incidents involving bears caught in traps, the public can contact the agency's hotline at 0800-000-930 or use its online Human-Animal Coexistence Management Reporting Platform.
