42 bears have been recorded in the Onon-Balj National Park and its surrounding areas since August 31, according to the administration of the protected area. The Onon-Balj National Park is located across Dadal, Binder, Norovlin and Bayan-Adraga soums of Khentii Province and Bayan-Uul soum of Dornod Province, covering a total area of 415,752 hectares. The recent bear sightings have prompted authorities to closely monitor the situation and take measures to ensure the safety of both wildlife and local residents.

Among the bears recorded in the park’s surrounding areas, two cubs from Bayan-Uul soum of Dornod Province, and one cub from Norovlin soum of Khentii Province, were brought to the park administration after being found in the respective areas. The three cubs were cared for and fed for seven days to help them regain their strength before being returned to the wild. Following the rehabilitation period, the cubs were successfully released into their natural habitat on September 15.

The release operation was carried out safely in cooperation with a Rapid Response Team established under an order of the Governor of Dadal Soum in Khentii Province. The team worked with the protected area’s administration to ensure that the cubs could be returned to their natural environment safely.

The recent increase in bear sightings has also prompted government authorities to strengthen their response measures in areas where bears have been entering. The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has issued instructions to provinces experiencing bear activity to establish and operate 24-hour rapid response services to address cases involving bears.

The authorities have also called on members of the public to exercise particular caution when travelling through areas where bears have been sighted. Residents and visitors are advised to remain alert and take appropriate measures to protect themselves while travelling in bear-inhabited areas.