Record Bear Sightings in Japan
Asian black bear sightings in Japan reached a record 20,792 from April to September, the highest for this six-month period since fiscal year 2009, the Environment Ministry reported Tuesday. This exceeded the previous peak of 15,832 recorded during the same months in fiscal year 2024, according to Jiji Press.
Regional Distribution of Sightings
- Iwate Prefecture: 4,499 sightings, the highest in the country.
- Akita Prefecture: Close second with 4,005 sightings.
Both prefectures are situated in northeastern Japan.
Statements from Authorities
“The bears are increasingly appearing in areas close to human settlements,” said Environment Minister Hirotaka Ishihara during a news briefing.
Recent Bear Attacks
On Monday, two men aged in their 60s and 80s were injured in separate bear attacks in Akita Prefecture, reported NHK. Additionally, police investigating the death of a 79-year-old woman found her body in a forested area of Akita, with suspicion of a bear attack, according to Kyodo News.
Impact and Measures
- Bear attacks in Akita have caused at least three fatalities and over 50 injuries this year.
- A bear warning has been issued throughout Akita Prefecture in response to the rising danger.
- Governor Kenta Suzuki has proposed deploying Self-Defense Forces personnel to address the threat.
Author’s summary: Bear encounters in Japan are reaching unprecedented levels, causing injuries, fatalities, and prompting calls for military assistance to manage the growing risk near human communities.