CHIANG MAI, THAILAND – A 32-year-old man took desperate measures to survive a bear attack at a wildlife foundation. Stefan Claudio Specogna, a Swiss man, resorted to an extreme act to free himself from the jaws of an Asian black bear. The bear had latched onto his right arm and refused to let go.
The terrifying incident occurred when Stefan was feeding the bear. After managing to escape, he received first aid before being rushed to the hospital. He was then transferred to a private hospital in downtown Chiang Mai for surgery, according to a post by One News 31 on Facebook.
What sets the Asian black bear apart is its distinct physical feature – a whitish mark in the shape of a crescent moon on the chest. These bears are found in the Himalayas, Southeast Asia, and parts of eastern Asia. However, they are considered a vulnerable species, facing threats from factors such as deforestation, loss of habitat, and poaching for their skin and gallbladders.
Unlike brown and American black bears, Asian black bears tend to be more aggressive towards humans. This aggressiveness has led to attacks and fatalities in the wild. These bears are omnivores, with a diet that includes insects, honey, fruits, nuts, small mammals, and birds.
Stefan’s harrowing encounter serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by wild animals and the importance of understanding their behavior in their natural habitat. It also highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect vulnerable species like the Asian black bear.