This study examines the interactions between bears and humans in the village of Zetelaka, with a particular focus on the impact of tourism. The village is home to a significant population of brown bears, which attract tourists due to their ecological and social significance. However, the proximity of bears to humans not only generates ecological concerns but also social tensions. The study reveals that the acceptance of bears in the community depends on how close they come to people’s daily lives. Tourism, particularly the increasing number of visitors, has a direct impact on the ecological balance and bear behavior, which could lead to long-term community and conservation challenges.
Keywords: human-animal interactions, impact of tourism, tourism branding, acceptance of bears, community narratives, nature conservation, sustainability, ecological issues, Zetelaka, social conflicts
