The image was shared by Łukasz Walczuk on the popular hiking group "Tatromaniacy," which brings together mountain enthusiasts. The photo captures what looks like a massive bear gazing through one of the windows of the Morskie Oko mountain shelter, accompanied by the caption: "Watch out for bears at the Morskie Oko shelter!"
Internet erupts over bear sighting in the Tatras
Since Sunday, the post had garnered over 25,000 reactions. Many users were both thrilled and terrified, commenting on how "beautiful yet frightening" the sight was, with some joking they "almost had a heart attack" seeing it.
However, eagle-eyed commenters were quick to debunk the photo. They pointed out that the "bear" is actually a picture stuck onto a vending machine inside the shelter—not a real wild animal making a surprise visit. Accusations of deception and misleading the public flooded the comment section.
Some users defended the post, saying that even if a real bear had appeared, it wouldn't be unusual. After all, the Tatra Mountains are the natural habitat of these majestic creatures.
Bears still active despite snowy Tatras—hikers beware!
While winter is settling in with increasing snowfall and dropping temperatures, experts warn that not all bears have entered hibernation yet. There's still a chance hikers might encounter one on the trails.
In the past, bears would typically begin hibernating in the latter half of November. But with harsh winters arriving later—bringing heavy snow and freezing temperatures—many bears don't settle down until the end of the year. Just three years ago, bear tracks were spotted in December in the Bieszczady Mountains and their foothills.
Stay alert in the mountains
Whether the viral photo was a playful gag or a vile, misleading prank, it serves as a timely reminder for all mountain lovers. If you're planning a hike in the Tatras, stay vigilant. The possibility of crossing paths with a live bear is very real, and it's essential to be prepared and informed.
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Source: Onet, Gazeta.pl, Super Express