During a search for a missing person in the Tartu area of Estonia, a drone unexpectedly spotted a bear moving in the woods. This event serves as a timely reminder to the public that bears are gradually awakening from hibernation and their movement within forests will become more active. The Estonian Ministry of the Environment has also reminded residents to be cautious during this time, as bear encounters may increase with the onset of spring.

Bears in Estonia usually start to emerge from hibernation in March as temperatures rise and the ground becomes damp. Male bears typically wake up first, while females usually stay in their dens with their cubs until April. While most bears tend to avoid humans, their keen sense of smell enables them to detect people from a distance, and unexpected encounters can still occur. Therefore, it is crucial for people near bear habitats to exercise caution

If someone encounters a bear, it's advised to slowly back away from the situation. Bears may react unpredictably, especially if they just emerged from hibernation and are confused or frightened. This incident not only highlights the importance of wildlife awareness during seasonal transitions but also emphasizes the necessity for outdoor enthusiasts to remain vigilant in areas where bears reside.