The bear in the Gaut-Garonne Pyrenees occupies a special place in the contemporary history of conservation. The Haut-Garonne Pyrenees, and in particular the commune of Melles, have become the symbol of the renaissance of the brown bear in the Pyrenees. It was here that the reintroduction programme began in 1996 with the first releases of Slovenian bears. Today, the region is home to a growing population of bears, living in an unspoilt environment between the peaks of the Crabère and the valleys of the Comminges. The presence of these plantigrades transforms the mountain experience for hikers, locals and visitors alike, who can discover educational trails and sites dedicated to understanding this emblematic species. The Haut-Garonne Pyrenees offer a unique observation ground for understanding the challenges of cohabitation between man and wildlife.
Florent Antras is the epitome of a field specialist, passionate and respected by all those involved in the mountains. Originally from the Couserans region in Ariège, this former shepherd and hunter turned mountain guide and mediator has devoted his life to studying the bear for over 25 years. His legitimacy stems as much from his encyclopaedic knowledge as from his direct experience in the field and his unique ability to engage in dialogue with all the stakeholders. A meticulous collector, he has amassed over 6,000 postcards on the bear and for decades has been recording the births and lives of cubs in the Pyrenees. His work as a mediator between the bear and local players such as breeders, shepherds and hunters makes him a key figure in understanding today’s conservation challenges. His infectious passion and balanced approach enable him to tackle this sensitive subject with the nuance it deserves.
His book“Les oursons des Pyrénées. Passé, présent et avenir“, published in 2020 by Vox Scriba, fills a remarkable gap in specialist literature. As the author explains, there are many books on adult bears, but none specifically on the “touching little balls of fur” that are cubs. This 402-page, richly illustrated book brings together the fruit of decades of collecting rare documents, accounts and photographs. The book tells the little-known story of young Pyrenean bears, their development, their first steps in the wilderness and the challenges they face to survive. Beyond its documentary aspect, the book offers a reflection on the future of this species and the conditions for its preservation. It has become an essential reference for anyone interested in Pyrenean wildlife and conservation issues.
On Friday 18 October 2025 at 6pm, Florent Antras will be presenting his book at the Salle des Fêtes in Melles, offering an exceptional opportunity to meet this renowned specialist. The presentation has a special symbolic dimension, as it takes place in the very village where the first reintroduced bears were released in 1996 and 1997: Ziva, Melba and Pyros. As well as simply presenting the book, the evening will provide an opportunity to discuss topical issues such as the evolution of the bear population, new monitoring techniques and the future prospects for this emblematic species. Participants will be able to discuss the challenges of cohabitation with the author, find out about the latest scientific data and gain a better understanding of the crucial role played by the Haut-Garonne Pyrenees in the conservation of the brown bear. This event is aimed at all ages and is a unique opportunity to delve into the fascinating world of Pyrenean bear cubs at the very heart of their reintroduction territory.
