Brown bear

The Tatra brown bear (Ursus arctos) is the largest wild animal in the Tatra Mountains, found mainly in remote forested and alpine areas of both Slovakia and Poland. It typically weighs between 100–350 kg, with males being larger than females. Its thick brown fur, powerful build, and keen sense of smell make it well adapted to the mountainous terrain.

Mostly solitary and shy, the brown bear avoids humans and is active mainly at dawn and dusk. It hibernates in winter, usually from November to March, in dens hidden in caves or dense thickets.

Though protected, the species faces threats from habitat disturbance and tourism. It plays a vital role in the Tatra ecosystem and is a symbol of the region’s wild nature.