The population size of the Pyrenean brown bear (Ursus arctos L.) has declined from about 200 animals to 20 or even less during the past 40 years. Distribution covered the Pyrenean slopes from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean Sea but is now restricted to an area of about 800 km2 in the western French Pyrenees. This area includes a national park, which, however, covers only a small portion of the bear's habitat. Thus, the bear is living largely outside the reserve. Forest exploitation and other human activities within the bear's range have been minimal until recently, so the species was able to withstand man's impact. However, a developmental program begun in 1976 will severely deteriorate the mountain landscape and, if allowed to continue, will bring the Pyrenean brown bear to extinction.
- Volume 4
- Issue
- Pages 243-247
- Publication Date 1 January 1980
- DOI 10.2307/3872874
- File Size 268.65 KB
- Download