Brown bear population in Catalan Pyrenees estimated at 54

The brown bear population in the Catalan Pyrenees is estimated at 54, according to data collected in 2025 by the Brown Bear Transfrontier Monitoring Group (GSTOP).

This group is formed by the Catalan government, the regional government of the Vall d'Aran known as the Conselh Generau d'Aran, as well as the governments of Andorra, France, Aragon, and Navarre.

In the entire Pyrenees, the population is estimated at 108.

Only three cubs were born in Catalonia last year, one male and two females, coming from two different litters.

In the Pyrenees as a whole, there are only eight cubs identified.

These figures are much lower than the previous year, when a total of 24 cubs were detected, 12 of which in Catalonia.

On the other hand, 10 brown bears were reported dead or missing in the past year.

There are an additional five bears that were not detected in 2025, but that cannot yet be officially considered missing, since in 2024 signs of them were spotted.

Of the 54 total brown bears in the Catalan Pyrenees, 13 are female, 30 are male, while the sex of one has not been identified.

The balance is more even across the whole mountain range, with 54 females and 52 males identified, and two of undetermined sex.

It's estimated that the bears roam an area of 7,100km², which is 100km² less than in 2024. 

In Catalonia, the distribution area is around 1,963km², larger than 2024's area by 150km².

Since 1996, the roaming area has been increasing, reflecting the trend of the population as well.