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Mysterious claw marks in Hohenems: bear or human behind them?
Mysterious scratch marks were discovered in Hohenems. Experts give the all-clear: Probably human origin, not bear activity.
Mysterious claw marks in Hohenems: bear or human behind them?
In Hohenems, scratch marks and impressions on rock surfaces have caused concern. The tracks, documented by several photographs, show noticeable grinding and scratching marks, with some prints having claw-like resemblances and others having an indentation reminiscent of a paw print. However, biologist Susanne Stadelmann, consultant at Inatura Dornbirn, classified the tracks as not bear tracks. She explains that bears typically do not leave scratch marks on rocks, but instead leave them on tree trunks or when digging for roots. In addition, the footprint that bears leave behind cannot be recognized in the tracks discovered.
Stadelmann suspects that the visible scratch marks are more likely the result of human activity, possibly caused by tools during a recent hallway cleaning. Although bears are not excluded in Vorarlberg, there is currently no evidence of their activity or sightings in the region. Their explanation strongly suggests that the tracks have human origins.
Unclear opinions about bears in the Rhine Valley
Although there is currently no reason to panic, experts recommend increased attention in the affected area. This includes, among others, the following advice:
- Nur auf markierten Wegen aufhalten.
- Hunde an der Leine führen.
- Nacht- und Dämmerungsspaziergänge im Wald vermeiden.
- Lebensmittel und Abfälle nicht im Wald oder in der Nähe von Hütten zurücklassen.
- Bienenstöcke mit Elektrozaun absichern.
- Nutztieren eine Übernachtung im Stall anbieten.
The brown bear in Europe
The brown bear was a common companion of humans in Central Europe until a few centuries ago. In the Middle Ages, however, these animals were pushed back into inaccessible areas. While brown bears were exterminated in Germany as early as 1835, they can only be found sporadically in Austria today. Slovenia, on the other hand, has one of the densest brown bear populations in the world, with up to 950 animals.
In a recently published illustrated book entitled "Among wild bears. The new neighbor in our forests", three Austrian photographers examined the creative and respectful coexistence with these animals. They worked with camera traps and sought exchanges with residents who live near bears. Their conclusion: It is possible to live with bears in Europe and they should be given a chance to move around in their natural environment.