Bear shooting reaches historic levels in Slovakia as orphaned cubs become internet sensation

Slovakia is experiencing the highest levels of bear hunting in its history, while two orphaned bear cubs at Bojnice Zoo have captured widespread public attention online. The cubs arrived at the zoo in February after their mother was shot dead near their den by two men with an unleashed dog. Tens of thousands of people are now following the cubs' story on social media. The intense public interest has prompted zoo officials to issue warnings that visitors cannot photograph or pet the animals under any circumstances, even for payment. The contrasting developments highlight Slovakia's complex relationship with its brown bear population, which faces increasing hunting pressure while individual bears continue to capture public sympathy.