IRCEF expert Oksana Strichko recently visited fourth-graders at Uzhhorod Lyceum “Image” to shed light on the Carpathians’ largest predator—the brown bear. “This animal is the most well-known member of its family, ranking among the world’s largest terrestrial predators and being Ukraine’s largest predator.” Unfortunately, the brown bear’s population has decreased due to habitat destruction. These bears are found in Ukraine’s Carpathians, where there are around 200 individuals dating from autumn 2005, according to the Carpathian Biosphere Reserve. The brown bear, in particular, is included in Ukraine’s Red Book“, Ms. Oksana pointed out during the educative event.
The youngsters listened intently about the bear’s dietary habits, preferred habitats, and various intriguing aspects of their lives. The class was interesting and enlightening, and the lyceum students’ learning experience was further enhanced by an interactive presentation. Ms. Oksana Strichko emphasized the vital importance of protecting brown bears in Ukraine. She highlighted the establishment of the Rehabilitation Center for Brown Bears in the Synevyr National Nature Park in April 2011. This facility serves as a sanctuary for bears that have been abused or held in captivity under inhumane conditions.
It was urged of the students to talk about what they thought of visiting the rehabilitation center and Synevyr National Nature Park. Many people believe that these organizations play an important role in assisting bears, rehabilitating them, and rescuing them from places like hotels, restaurants, mobile zoos, and circuses, where animals are frequently held in terrible conditions for entertainment reasons. As a team, the youngsters agreed that predators such as brown bears are not endangered when humans understand the principles of living together with them.
The event was held within the framework of cooperation between the Interreligious and Civil Environmental Forum of Eastern Europe (IRCEF) headed by Olexander Bokotey) and the German Nature Conservation Union (NABU Bundesverband, NABU International), project coordinators Ivan Tymofeiev (NABU), and Nataliya Kulya (IRCEF).
Informational Service of IRCEF