Circassians are an ethnic group from the North Caucasus region, which includes the modern territories of Russia, Georgia and Türkiye. Circassians have ancient hunting traditions, including bear hunting, which is an important cultural practice.
The traditional Circassian method of bear hunting involves the use of dogs, spears, and traps. Dogs specially trained to hunt bears are often large and strong, such as the Caucasian Shepherd Dog, also known as the Caucasian Ovcharka. The dogs tracked the bear and barked loudly to warn the hunters of its whereabouts.
The hunters then approached the bear with spears, trying to injure or kill it. However, bears are extremely strong and dangerous animals, so hunters often have to use traps to catch them. These traps often consist of large, heavy wooden boxes filled with food. When the bear enters the box to eat the food, the door closes behind it, trapping it inside.
After capturing the bear, it was usually killed, and its meat and fur were used by the Circassians. Fur is used to make clothes and blankets, while meat is used for food.
Today, bear hunting is banned in many areas, including most of Russia and Europe, for conservation reasons. However, the traditional Circassian bear hunting methods provide insight into the rich cultural heritage of this people.
Please help these Circassians find the bear in the picture.
