Juan Carrito is the icon of a unique species in danger of extinction, that of the Marsican brown bear, genetically and morphologically unique, which numbers approximately 60 specimens, one of the rarest bear populations in the world. Juan Carrito and his family have been making headlines since May 2020 when mother Amarena (a name derived from her passion for cherries) was running around with her 4 cubs near the towns in the area.

Juan Carrito is the icon of a unique species in danger of extinction, that of the Marsican brown bear, genetically and morphologically unique, which numbers approximately 60 specimens, one of the rarest bear populations in the world. Juan Carrito and his family have been making headlines since May 2020 when mother Amarena (a name derived from her passion for cherries) was running around with her 4 cubs near the towns in the area.
The smallest, called M20 or Juan Carrito, takes its name from Carrito, a hamlet of Ortona Dei Marsi, where it was first sighted. He was an extremely confident bear, who over time became increasingly accustomed to and attracted to anthropogenic food and, despite various attempts to bring him back to normality, always returned to inhabited centers, sometimes traveling enormous distances to rejoin what for him was "his optimal condition", thus becoming a "problematic" bear.
His story has captured attention for his curious nature and his relationship with the urban environment, his presence has become a phenomenon on social media and beyond, his popularity has highlighted important issues such as the coexistence between humans and wildlife, the need to preserve natural habitats and raise awareness of the protection of wild animals.
In Italy, Juan Carrito's story has been widely shared through articles, social media posts, and discussions on nature conservation issues. His name has become a symbol of how the interaction between humans and wild animals can be both complicated and fascinating.
A BEAR-FRIENDLY COMMUNITY involves cooperation between local communities, institutions, companies and visitors who support COHABITATION with the bear. It is important to SHARE the territory by avoiding habits that favor the danger for bears and all the other wildlife, improve HABITATS in ecological corridors, promote ECOTOURISM, ensuring that residents and tourists can be ambassadors of the wild and very rich nature of the entire Central Apennines.
Coexistence with wildlife and the environment is a symptom of a healthy and civilized society. Respecting and following the rules is fundamental, being informed and passionate will make life better.
In this regard, it would be enough to respect and apply some RULES:

• • moderate speed on mountain roads
  • dispose of rubbish correctly by not leaving it outside the bins
  • reduce pollution and waste
  • keep your pets on a leash, to avoid stressing wildlife.
  • If you encounter a bear, stay calm and back away slowly
  • never follow animal tracks.